While Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a lifelong condition, it shouldn’t stop you living your life. In the past, we have talked about an array of HS management tips and products. Hopefully, this has given you an idea of some of the things you will need to care for your condition. We’re going to look at some items you might like to keep in your hidradenitis suppurativa kit and be prepared , just in case.
A HS on the go kit contains all the things you need to manage your condition while you are not at home. It may be useful at work or college. Or even at the gym.
Your HS on the go kit will give you the confidence to deal with your condition regardless of where you are. Here are some suggestions of basics to include.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Kit – Dressings and Bandages
Hidradenitis Suppurativa dressings and bandages may be the most crucial item in your HS kit. Not only do they reduce the risk of infection, but they also keep you comfortable as well. When choosing a product, consider the following:
- Comfort and your ability to move around.
- Whether the adhesive will irritate your skin.
- And whether the dressing will leak if a wound burst.
Everyone has their favourite products. And there’s a lot of experimentation in figuring this out. Unfortunately, lots of people with HS find that dressings are not designed with HS in mind.
This is where HidraWear comes in. HidraWear’s dressings are adhesive-free, breathable and allow for comfortable movement. They are held in place with the HidraWear AX garment. HidraWear now also do a dressings subscription, so there’s never any need to worry about running out.
Topical Pain Relief
Over the counter pain, medication like ibuprofen or paracetamol can be great. But they don’t suit everyone, and they are not your only option. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking medication. Topical creams and gels like Sudacrem and Savlon can provide as much relief.
Essential oils like tea tree and lavender can be good natural alternatives. Just remember when using essential oils to dilute them as they can cause irritation.
Change of Clothes
An unfortunate fact about hidradenitis suppurativa lesions is that sometimes they leak. And traditional dressings slip, or blood can seep through. So, part of your HS kit should be a change of clothes.
If your HS is under your arms, you may need an extra top. And if your HS is around your breasts or groin, you will need a change of underwear.
Now, obviously you need not carry these things all the time. But if you are going to work, college or the gym. And you have a flare-up, pack them in case.
Clean Up Items
Also, for leaks, you may want to carry wipes like water wipes or cotton pads. If you are sensitive, avoid wipes with fragrances, as sometimes they can be irritating. Alternatively, reusable washcloths are an option. And great if you are environmentally conscious.
If you are using a disinfectant that comes neat, don’t forget to dilute it. Essential oils like tea tree have antibacterial properties. And it can be an excellent natural alternative to what you might buy in a chemist. However, it is strong and applying it neat is not advised.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Journal
Journals are a good way to keep track of your flare-ups. You can record changing symptoms or frequency. As well as your progress in HS management strategies. Some people may choose to record stress levels. Or food and exercise.
That said, journals are not for everyone. Some people may find that tracking their condition might make them anxious. That’s okay too. Make sure what you include suits you.
If you decide journaling is for you, do a search online for premade symptom trackers. Or you could even make your own.
Personalising Your Kit
Everyone’s condition and lifestyles are different, and so you may not need all the items listed above. Or you may wish to add some. When building your kit consider these three things
- How does my condition affect me on a day to day basis?
- What do I need to stay comfortable throughout the day or during an activity?
- What products have I tried, tested and found to work for me?
Make sure that your HS on the go kit helps you live your life how you want to. And don’t let Hidradenitis Suppurativa hold you back.
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About the Author
Shannon Sweeney is a psychology and sociology student from Ireland. She is also living with HS and has a keen interest in lifestyle, wellbeing and hidradenitis suppurativa.
