What are some immediate relief treatments for HS flare-ups?
When you're experiencing an HS flare-up, there are several things you can try at home for quick relief:
Temperature therapy
- Apply warm compresses to help reduce pain and inflammation
- Some people prefer cold compresses or ice packs instead
- Limit heat Show Full Answer
What are some immediate relief treatments for HS flare-ups?
When you're experiencing an HS flare-up, there are several things you can try at home for quick relief:
Temperature therapy:
- Apply warm compresses to help reduce pain and inflammation
- Some people prefer cold compresses or ice packs instead
- Limit heat application to 10 minutes at a time to avoid overheating and sweating, which can worsen symptoms
Pain relief:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- NSAIDs can help reduce both pain and inflammation
A myHSteam member shared: "I took some ibuprofen and the pain went from a 10 to a 4."
Skin care:
- Keep the affected area clean by washing gently daily with non-irritating soap
- Keep wounds uncovered when possible to promote healing
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing like cotton to reduce friction
- Use bandages to protect open wounds and keep topical medications in place
What to avoid:
Don't scrub, pick at, or try to lance your lesions yourself. This can lead to infection, bleeding, scarring, and delayed healing.
If home remedies aren't providing enough relief or your symptoms worsen, contact your dermatologist about prescription options like antibiotics, corticosteroids, or other medications.
January 2
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