What are the common symptoms with Hidradenitis Suppurativa and what is considered “normal”?
In this article we are focusing on systemic symptoms. Data has been collected over the years by working side-by-side with hidradenitis sufferers by way of patient advocacy, face-to-face support groups, various online support groups, and from our own survey recently posted in hidradenitis support groups, which includes data collected from roughly 500 Hidradenitis Suppurativa sufferers.
Below are the most commonly reported systemic symptoms during flares listed in order by highest percentage:
Fatigue: This is not the normal "I did not get enough sleep" fatigue. This type of fatigue is feeling tired all the time and can also present as body fatigue. This type of fatigue is also known as chronic fatigue and can be debilitating in some cases and presents with or without activity.
Malaise/ Flu-like symptoms: A general feeling of discomfort or uneasiness including feeling achy or run down.
Nausea: The feeling that you may vomit; a queasy feeling that ranges from slightly uncomfortable to agonizing, often accompanied by clammy skin.
Flush warm feeling without fever: This is where you feel like you have a fever, however, you do not. Your face my become flush. You may even feel warm to the touch on your face or body. Note: If this happens always take your temperature to rule out a fever.
Low-grade or Mild fever: This includes a temperature above normal, but below 100.4 F (can range anywhere from 99 F to 100.4 F). Anything 100.5 and above, especially with other symptoms could indicate something more serious is going on and you should seek medical attention.
Cold Sweats: Chills alongside abnormal sweating, regardless of how hot or cold it is in your environment. Cold sweats can happen without fever.
Headaches: Self-explanatory and can come in many forms.
OTHER SYMPTOMS REPORTED (only a small percentage of people reported, not as common):
Leg Weakness: There are various things that can cause leg weakness; if this becomes chronic or bothersome please consult your physician.
Low Temperature: This can happen for various reasons, especially if you're dealing with anemia. This can also present with infection in some cases. If your body temperature drops to 95 F or below seek medical attention immediately.
Dizziness: Several things can cause dizziness: Pain, getting up too fast or dehydration. If this becomes chronic consult your physician.
Achy Joints: This can be caused by various things including chronic inflammation. If this becomes chronic, bothersome, or debilitating speak to your physician.
Although many of the common symptoms listed above seem to be normal and common among hidradenitis sufferers, as always, never assume every symptom is related to Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Always speak to your physician about your symptoms and ensure everything else has been ruled out before making the assumption any symptom is related to your Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Please see research on symptoms HERE.
Disclaimer: This is an internal research project conducted with the help of and in order to help Hidradenitis Suppurativa sufferers. Although research supports some of the findings, we cannot say at this time, that research backs up everything mentioned in this article.
Content in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment because of something you have read on this website.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.
This is an awareness article for educational purposes.
Written by Denise Panter-Fixsen
Edited by Brindley Kons