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Real members of myHSteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have 2 lesions that have been actively draining for more than a year

A myHSteam Member asked a question 💭
Nevada City, CA

I am 62, I have had this condition since I was 16, but I had no idea what it was. In January of '24 I started a weight loss journey and have lost 90 lbs. I had developed 2 sores on the upper inside of my inner left thigh before I started getting my glucose under control and they both tunneled. This had never happened before
I realized being metabolically unhealthy was the driving factor behind my HS when I ceased to develop new sores, but the last 2 have stayed active since then. I've been on… read more

August 14, 2025
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Answer Summary

Members with long-term HS discussed what has helped their stubborn, draining lesions, with diet changes like keto and Mediterranean eating... Read more

Members with long-term HS discussed what has helped their stubborn, draining lesions, with diet changes like keto and Mediterranean eating being the most talked-about strategies. Several members shared that cutting sugar, carbs, and saturated fat while increasing omega-3 rich foods like chia, flax, and fish helped dry up lesions that had been active for years, though many noted results vary from person to person. A recurring theme was the challenge of finding what works individually, with members exploring dairy elimination, hormone therapy, red light therapy, and Metformin as additional tools while supporting each other through the process.

myHSteam

For long-term draining lesions that haven't responded to other treatments, surgical options might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider. Two common procedures include deroofing (removing the skin over the tunnel) or wide excision (removing the entire affected area). These procedures can be especially helpful for Show Full Answer

For long-term draining lesions that haven't responded to other treatments, surgical options might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider. Two common procedures include deroofing (removing the skin over the tunnel) or wide excision (removing the entire affected area). These procedures can be especially helpful for tunneling lesions like the ones you're experiencing.

Here are some additional management strategies to consider:
• Keep the area clean and dry
• Use non-stick pads for drainage
• Apply clear petroleum jelly to reduce irritation
• Try warm compresses for inflammation
• Consider ice packs for pain relief It's important to monitor these persistent lesions closely. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
• Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure
• Increased pain and swelling
• Fever and chills
• Limited movement

While you're working to reduce prescription medications, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help manage symptoms:
• Continue your healthy weight management journey
• Get adequate sleep
• Manage stress levels
• Stay physically active
• Maintain a healthy diet

August 14, 2025
A myHSteam Member

Thay would flat out kill me 😆
I am studying to be a health coach, so im very familiar with what is and isn't keto, in addition to the fact that I've been following keto on and off for about 23 years.
It could be dairy, it could be stevia, it could be any number of things.
As long as I've been doing this though, I have not been able to get my daily fasting glucose consistently below 100. Thats something my endo and I are troubleshooting.

August 20, 2025
A myHSteam Member

It's not food for everyone, although no sugar and no carbs seems to help. Some of us are affected by hormones. I think the pill can help?

August 18, 2025
A myHSteam Member

Hi Bonbon! I actually lost all that weight doing keto and intermittent fasting. These are the last two hold outs, and amazingly the only two that have ever 'tunneled', other than the very first one I had at 16.
Keto has done wonders in preventing further breakouts, but unfortunately hasn't affected these.

August 15, 2025
A myHSteam Member

Hi Rebecca.....I've had HS for over 40 yrs and tried all kinds of different pills, creams, baths etc, etc and nothing works for any length of time. I tried Keto diet to lose weight and my HS improved. Keto is no sugar and no carbs(potatoes, breads, and pasta)...most don't know that carbs turn into sugar when your body is processing them. I tend to cheat often, but will get a small lesion that's gone quickly. I have stuck to the diet enough that 2 lesions I've had for years that leaked constantly, have completely dried up. I would be happy to help if you're interested. It's drastic at first to give up carbs, but incredible not to have HS......this does not work on everyone, but may be worth trying!

August 15, 2025

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