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A myHSteam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Burlington, NC

Ok, like... what I mean is - you're laying in bed, in absolute agony, unable to even put pressure on one side because of how painful and swollen ur HS is under one of your armpits. It's like... "fine! If you don't like the pressure, the DRAIN already!!" Ya know? πŸ˜… I've been literally shaking from the pain this week and this flareup refuses to stop 😭😭😭 also, what do yall do about flareups that seem to have no end? - like... multiples at a time, in different areas, or where it seems like one… read more

August 15, 2025
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A myHSteam Member

I definitely understand. I would have large painful boils where i could barely walk or move. Im a try anything and everything type person because the symptoms drive me crazy! Hot compresses, witch hazel, covering area with a Strong fabric band aide forcing it to burst, a compress with just alcohol to speed up process or alleviate pain, motrin, washing multiple times a day with hibiclens. Wearing mostly sleeveless so my skin under my arms can breathe. Hope that helps.

August 16, 2025 (edited)
myHSteam

You're definitely not alone in feeling frustrated and talking to your HS! The pain you're describing is very real and can be incredibly intense. Many people with HS describe the pain as feeling like "fire inside a bubble trapped under your skin" or "a hot knife cutting your flesh." Being unable to do basic activities like Show Full Answer

You're definitely not alone in feeling frustrated and talking to your HS! The pain you're describing is very real and can be incredibly intense. Many people with HS describe the pain as feeling like "fire inside a bubble trapped under your skin" or "a hot knife cutting your flesh." Being unable to do basic activities like brushing your hair or even lying comfortably is a common and challenging experience. The cycle you're describing - where one flare drains while another appears - is a familiar pattern with HS. Early signs often include itching or tingling sensations before new flares develop. Some people report waking up with itching and burning, only to discover new clusters of boils within hours. This cycling pattern can feel endless and overwhelming, especially when multiple areas are affected simultaneously.

It's important to keep affected areas clean and protected during these cycles. Since you're experiencing such severe and persistent flares, it would be advisable to consult with your dermatologist, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan to help manage these prolonged flare cycles.

August 15, 2025

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