Getting the right care for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re still trying to figure out who to see or what questions to ask. Finding the right healthcare provider can make a big difference in managing this skin condition and improving your quality of life.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses (pockets of pus), and tunnels (called sinus tracts or fistulas) under the skin. HS often affects areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits, inner thighs, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. Over time, HS lumps may break open, leak fluid, and leave scars. HS symptoms can make daily life difficult, causing both physical pain and emotional distress.

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This article offers an overview of who treats HS, what to consider when seeking care, and how to find the provider for you.

Providers Who Treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Managing HS often requires a team of healthcare providers who can address different aspects of the condition. Understanding the role of each specialist can help you build a care team that meets your needs.

Primary Care Providers

Your primary care provider is often the first person you’ll see if you notice symptoms of HS, such as painful bumps or abscesses. If you think you might have HS, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. The earlier HS is diagnosed, the better your chances of managing symptoms and avoiding complications.

Your doctor may recommend early treatments like medicated creams, antibiotics, or lifestyle changes. They can also refer you to a dermatologist or other specialists for more advanced care.

Dermatologists

A dermatologist — a doctor with expertise in diagnosing and treating diseases of the skin, hair, and nails — is usually the main specialist involved in treating HS. Your dermatologist plays a key role in confirming your diagnosis and helping you manage HS over time.

A dermatologist may use a physical exam, study your medical history, or occasionally order tests like imaging or a skin biopsy (removing a bit of tissue to be examined more closely) to diagnose HS. Once you have a diagnosis, a dermatologist can recommend treatments to manage flare-ups (periods of worsening symptoms). They may suggest treatments that are topical (applied to the skin), oral (taken by mouth), or injected. They may also recommend procedures such as laser therapy or minor surgery.

The sooner you get help, the better. Taking care of your symptoms early can prevent them from getting worse.

Be sure to work closely with your dermatologist to create a treatment plan. Ask questions about what treatments might work best, how to prevent flare-ups, and how to care for your skin between flares.

Surgeons

For some people, HS flare-ups become so severe that surgery is needed. Some procedures can be done in a dermatologist’s office, but more complex surgeries may require a surgical specialist.

Surgery is usually recommended when HS causes painful lumps or nodules that often recur (come back), leak fluid, or form sinus tracts or fistulas. Surgical specialists may include general surgeons, dermatosurgeons (dermatologists with advanced training in skin surgery), or plastic surgeons (specialists in repairing and reconstructing skin and tissue).

For example, if you need skin grafting — a procedure that replaces damaged skin with healthy skin from another part of your body — you may require a plastic surgeon. If you’re considering surgery for HS, make sure the provider has experience treating the condition. This will help ensure you have the best outcome possible.

Dietitians

For some people, certain foods may make HS symptoms worse. A registered dietitian can help you discover what foods may trigger your symptoms and help you figure out a nutritious meal plan that supports both your skin and your overall health.

There’s some evidence that having a high body weight can make HS worse. If weight loss is a goal for you, a dietitian can help you create a weight-management plan that works for you.

Mental Health Professionals

Living with HS can affect more than just your skin. This condition can also take a toll on your mental health. Talk therapy can help you manage the stress, anxiety, and depression that may come with this chronic (long-term) condition. A therapist or counselor can also refer you to a psychiatrist or another provider who prescribes antidepressants or other medications to support your mental health, if needed. Getting this kind of support can make a real difference in your quality of life.

Other Specialists

HS is a complex disease and is often linked with other health issues called comorbidities. These conditions may include diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Comorbidities can make HS harder to manage. Depending on how HS affects your body and life, you may also work with:

• An endocrinologist, who treats hormone-related conditions like PCOS or diabetes
• A gastroenterologist to help manage an IBD like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• A pain specialist, if HS-related pain is interfering with your daily life

The Process of Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa

If you notice signs of hidradenitis suppurativa, don’t wait — reach out to your primary care doctor or dermatologist right away. The sooner you get help for HS, the better. Taking care of your symptoms early can prevent them from getting worse.

It’s important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. Your plan may change over time as your condition changes.

HS is a chronic condition, so managing it is an ongoing process. You’ll need regular checkups with your healthcare team to track how your treatment plan is working and adjust it if needed. Making the right changes at the right time — like improving skin care routines, tweaking your diet, or considering surgery when needed — can lead to better symptom control and boost your quality of life.

HS looks different for everyone. That’s why it’s important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. Your plan may change over time as your condition changes.

Tips To Help You Find the Right HS Specialist

When it comes to finding the right healthcare provider for HS, it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in their care. These tips can help you choose the right dermatologist or specialist:

• Focus on experience — Look for specialists who have experience treating HS. This ensures they are up to date on the latest treatment options and understand the condition well.
• Collect referrals — Ask your primary care provider or other healthcare professionals for referrals to trusted dermatologists or surgeons who specialize in HS.
• Get a second opinion — If you’re not satisfied with the care you’re receiving, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. It’s important that you feel comfortable with your treatment plan.

Finding the right specialist can make a big difference in how well you manage HS and how confident you feel about your care.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myHSteam, people share their experiences with hidradenitis suppurativa, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Which doctors do you see for your HS? Let others know in the comments below.

Still have questions about your condition? I can help.