Been there, felt the same just the other day. The worst thing anyone ever told me out of pure ignorance to this disease was, "It's not the end of the world, get over it". Many days, it does seem like the end of the world, and this is something that you just can't "get over". With the constant reminders of affected areas, how can anyone just ignore the fact that the lesions are there??? I've felt that same despair and hopelessness, feeling defeated just when I thought things were getting better. Feeling as if there was no resolution to solve this never-ending problem. Feeling like an outcast with n interest in things that I used to enjoy. I've said to myself, "This can't be life??" Who wants to live like this in constant pain, shame and isolation from others? This disease is not only physically depilating, but emotionally damaging too. It can be time consuming finding ways to cope with the factors of this disease. We suffer in silence afraid to share our pain with others who do not fully understand. When we do share with others, we hope they understand and are supportive, not viewing us as disgusting outcasts. I'm hoping that if I make certain lifestyle changes that I could go back to at least half the woman I used to be. Happy, vibrant, optimistic and "enjoying" life. Feeling like I'm in the same boat, I say to you, although we may have to do more than the average person to maintain our daily lives, please don't give up. It may feel like all your days ahead will be dark, but trust me they won't be. I've felt like I've reached the end of the road many days, but kept on trucking with the thought that I will not be, and refuse to be defeated by HS. In the struggle with you, keep your head up.

I've been there too. HS on top of all my other illnesses just feels like I'm being punished. If I'm not in pain from one, I'm in pain from another.

But, now that I know that I have HS, it's been easier dealing with it. You do have to find what treatments ease your symptoms then stick to it long term. There's nothing to you apply or change for a couple days that's going to make a major difference. If you start something and it seems to be helping, keep doing it. You have to view your HS care as mandatory like bathing or eating; Something you have to do on a regular basis. Surgery may help you, but you still have to maintain your wounds after surgery.

Don't give up on yourself. We all have to follow these routines and do what is best to make it through the day. Everyone here knows what you're going through and we can help each other.

I have has skin scrapes, and surgery. I hate this awful disease, too! I have a new place. I too get so sick of surgery, and gauze pads. Please, keep your chin-up. I also have poor circulation in my legs. I even get lethargic at times. The depression is awful. I hope that it get out of the orphaned disease status soon. God bless us all!
As I said in another post I live in Florida....not a good place as it's too hot, and humid; and our sweat too can be another enemy. A doctor warned me of exercise, heat, and sweating. What is one to do?

I am right there with you. I just posted in another thread about friends just think you are lazy because you can't do much. I don't work and can barely get up enough courage to leave the house since my confidence is practically non resistant.. It is TOUGH to say the least. I don't know what I am going to do either and just feel hopeless. Hang in there. That is what I am doing. One day at a time. You are right on with the pure disgust of getting a new boil, cyst, whatever the hell they are. It really takes it out of you. Just when you think it can't get any worse BOOM.