How to prepare for a video visit about Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Mild)

Audience: pediatric

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a skin condition that causes small, painful lumps under the skin, often in areas like the armpits or groin. Mild HS means these lumps are fewer and less severe but can still cause discomfort. Preparing for a video visit about mild HS helps you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, you can discuss symptoms, treatment options, and ways to manage the condition. It’s important to have good lighting and a quiet space for the video call. You may be asked to show the affected areas on camera. Keep a list of your questions and any medicines or creams you use. Remember, telemedicine can help with advice and follow-up but may not replace in-person exams if symptoms worsen. If you notice signs like spreading redness, fever, or severe pain, seek urgent care. This guide helps you prepare and understand what to expect during your telemedicine visit for mild HS.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden increase in pain, redness, or swelling around the lumps — seek urgent medical care.
• Development of fever or chills alongside skin symptoms — contact healthcare immediately.
• Lumps that are draining large amounts of pus or have a foul smell — arrange for in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to mild HS.
• Reviewing skin condition visually via video.
• Providing advice on skin care and mild treatment options.
• Monitoring treatment progress and symptom changes.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical procedures like drainage or biopsies.
• Diagnosing severe or complicated HS cases requiring physical examination.
• Managing severe infections or complications needing urgent intervention.
• Prescribing controlled medications without in-person assessment.

What is Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) causes small, painful lumps under the skin, usually in areas where skin rubs together like armpits, groin, or behind the knees. These lumps may break open and heal slowly. Mild HS means the lumps are fewer and less severe but can still be uncomfortable and affect daily life.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can talk openly. Have a list of your symptoms, when they started, and any treatments you have tried. Be ready to show the affected skin areas clearly on the camera if comfortable. Have paper and pen ready to write down advice or next steps. Ask a parent or guardian to help if needed.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, pain levels, and any changes in your skin. They may ask you to show the lumps on camera. They will discuss treatment options such as skin care, medications, or lifestyle changes. They may recommend an in-person visit if needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your lumps become very painful, red, swollen, or start to drain pus, or if you develop a fever, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. These signs may mean the infection is worsening and needs more urgent treatment.

Managing Mild HS at Home

Keep the affected areas clean and dry. Wear loose clothing to reduce skin rubbing. Avoid shaving the affected areas if it causes irritation. Follow the treatment plan your healthcare provider suggests. Regular follow-up visits, including telemedicine, can help manage symptoms.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit place for your video visit.
• Have a list of your symptoms and when they started.
• Prepare to show affected skin areas on camera if comfortable.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have a parent or guardian available to assist if needed.
• Ensure your device is charged and your internet connection is stable.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment advice given by your healthcare provider.
• Keep the affected areas clean and avoid irritation.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended, including telemedicine sessions.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or worsening symptoms occur.

FAQs

What causes Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

HS is caused by inflammation of hair follicles, often in areas where skin rubs together. The exact cause is not fully understood but may involve genetics, hormones, and immune system factors.

Can mild HS be cured?

There is no known cure for HS, but mild cases can often be managed well with proper skin care, medications, and lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Is it safe to show affected areas on video?

Yes, showing affected areas during a video visit helps your healthcare provider assess your condition. Only share what you are comfortable with, and remember the visit is confidential.

What treatments might be recommended for mild HS?

Treatments may include gentle skin cleansing, topical creams or antibiotics, pain relief, and advice on clothing and hygiene to reduce irritation.

When should I go to the emergency room?

If you experience severe pain, spreading redness, fever, or large amounts of pus, seek emergency care promptly as these may be signs of infection needing urgent treatment.

Sources

1. Hidradenitis Suppurativa — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Hidradenitis Suppurativa Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hidradenitis Suppurativa Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Diagnosis and Treatment — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for education and preparation only. It is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.