I did. He ran some hormone levels and said everything came back in the normal range so no answers there. The medical community really doesn't seem to know what to do with us other than to say, stop shaving & smoking, start washing better, lose weight and take these antibiotics.

I would still give it a whirl, though. You never know what your labs may show. I would also look through this board and others for advice. You may just find your HS trigger. I found mine using the AI protocol--discontinuing the most common trigger foods from your diet to see if there is a cause and effect relationship. Those foods are gluten, eggs, dairy, & nightshades (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, tobacco).

Good luck to you!

I have thought of doing this myself, although like lula the medical community around here doesn't know what to do either. But I guess it wouldn't hurt to explore every avenue.

I didn't see one for HS but found out during normal blood work that I had hypothyroidism. Since getting on synthroid and changing my birth control I've seen huge improvements. Not sure which one is to thank for the improvement, but worth a shot!

Thanks Lula for sharing, had the same thoughts though "stop using deodorant, shaving, etc" but i guess its worth a try...

Thanks guys for sharing, we need this support as this disease is slow torture. In South Africa it is so unknown...

But as they say "where there's a will theres a way"
Hugs to you guys :-)

Update: I tried to get in to see an Endocrinologist but unfortunately my insurance does not cover hormone tests, they called it "investigative", whatever that means. So basically I can't even check my own hormone levels to see if it's a factor with my HS.

I see one for diabetes. My other hormones are in the normal range. I don't think it has much to do with that. People say it's more an auto immune disorder. Inflammation and all of that.

I see my endo every 6 months for a different disorder. He knows about my HS and has never commented on it. I don't thin an endocrinologist would be very helpful in treating this.

I am new to the group and have been going through past discussions to get to know your thoughts and concerns. You can always go to your OBGYN and get your hormone levels checked if an endocrinologist is not an option. Most doctors really do not seem to have much of an answer or concern for treatments options which is infuriating, besides the standard wash better, lose weight, etc. . My trigger is definitely hormone related since my flare ups are usually tied in to my cycle. But seeing anyone is worth a shot if you can get a little more relief. Good luck!

My flares were usually tied to my Menstrual cycle...however since having breast cancer, and no more periods those flares are just there for an eternity. Still 5 more years on tamoxifen...no relief in site.