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Real members of myHSteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I’ve Never Heard Of This And Have Been Suffering From It For 3 Yrs. Is It From Smoking?

A myHSteam Member asked a question 💭
Wanamingo, MN

I thought maybe my hygiene was going downhill. But it doesn’t matter how careful I am or if I shaved with a razor. I smoke a pack a day of cigarettes, but have for 20 years. Only experienced this for 2. I flare up every month or month and a half. Should I apply ice? So painful, afraid of infections.

February 16
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A myHSteam Member

So I use ice for my really bad lesions all the time. Or cold water therapy. It isn't caused because you might have gotten lacks about your hygiene. But what will cause more lesions is shaving or plucking any hair. Because it's not the sweat gland it's the hair follicle that your immune system is attacking. If you can get one of those kind of electric razors , not the ones that pull , but they're just kind of cut the hair you're gonna be better off and won't get as many lesions

February 20
A myHSteam Member

Anecdotally I have heard that smoking can make HS worse, especially if nightshades are a trigger for you (they aren't for everyone). Ice could help the pain, warm compresses might help the flares come to the surface and start draining which can also ease the pain.

February 16
A myHSteam Member

Not sure if it’s been 2 or 3 yrs; sorry

February 16

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