You Deserve a Care Team That Truly Cares
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a complex medical condition — not just a skin issue, not just a pain issue, and definitely not just a cosmetic issue. HS impacts daily life in multiple ways: physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. That’s why no single clinician can address every aspect of the journey.
You deserve support from a whole team — one that listens to you, respects you, and centers your lived experience in every decision.
When healthcare becomes a partnership, healing becomes more possible.
Why HS Requires a Team Approach
HS involves:
- Chronic inflammation
- Pain and wound care needs
- Mental health challenges
- Lifestyle adaptation
- Complex scarring and sinus tracts
Because of this, different specialists bring different expertise — and together, they help you get comprehensive care.
Your HS Care Team — Who Does What?
Dermatologist — The First Point of Care
Dermatologists diagnose HS and guide medical treatment.
They help you navigate:
- Biologics
- Antibiotics and topicals
- Laser and light therapy
- Referrals for surgery and mental health support
Tip: Find one with HS experience — it makes a world of difference.
Surgeon — When Relief Requires a Procedure
Some HS lesions require more than medicine.
Surgeons help when:
- Tunnels (sinus tracts) develop
- Severe scarring blocks healing
- Flares are widespread or recurring
Surgery doesn’t mean failure — sometimes it means freedom.
Therapist or Mental Health Professional — Healing Beyond the Skin
HS can bring:
- Anxiety about flares and social situations
- Depression from chronic pain
- Sleep disruption and fatigue
- Shame, body image distress, and trauma
A therapist helps build resilience and confidence, supports grief processing, and improves quality of life. Mental health is healthcare.
HS Coaches — Your Partner in Daily Life
Here’s where IAHSN is transforming care. HS coaches help you:
- Build routines around flare-ups, wound care, and comfort
- Understand triggers (stress, hormones, food, friction)
- Strengthen resilience and coping skills
- Make lifestyle changes that feel realistic and supportive
- Set personal goals for wellness, advocacy, or career
- Feel seen beyond a diagnosis
Coaching bridges the gap between medical treatment and daily living — the part of HS often overlooked.
And the Most Important Member: YOU
You know:
- When pain spikes
- What triggers a flare
- What routines support healing
- How HS impacts your heart and mind
Your voice guides the team.
Your experience is evidence.
Your needs matter.
You are not a passive patient — you are a crucial leader in your care.
Communication: The Glue That Holds the Team Together
Great care happens when everyone is on the same page. You can help by:
✔ Keeping a flare diary
✔ Bringing questions to appointments
✔ Sharing how treatments affect your daily life
✔ Speaking up when something isn’t working
✔ Asking for referrals (you are allowed!)
Advocacy isn’t about being demanding — it’s about getting the care you deserve.
Building Your Dream Team
Here are steps to strengthen your support system:
- Start with a dermatologist familiar with HS
- Add a therapist to care for emotional well-being
- Consult a surgeon if lesions limit movement or comfort
- Consider physical or occupational therapy for mobility support
- Lean into peer communities like IAHSN
Each person brings a piece of the puzzle.
Together, they make care complete.
You Are Worth a Team That Fights With You
You don’t have to carry HS alone. The right team will:
✨ Believe you
✨ Listen to you
✨ Advocate for you
✨ Walk beside you
And when you have support from multiple directions, hope grows stronger — and you do, too.
At IAHSN, we are proud to be part of your team.
