What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Mild)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), you will usually receive guidance on managing your skin condition at home. Mild HS often involves small, painful lumps under the skin, typically in areas where skin rubs together. Your healthcare provider may recommend gentle skin care, lifestyle changes, and possibly medications to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. You might be advised to monitor your symptoms and keep track of any changes. Follow-up appointments, either via telemedicine or in person, are often scheduled to review your progress. It’s important to watch for signs that your condition is worsening or if new symptoms develop, as these may require in-person care. Telemedicine can help you get timely advice and support but has limits in physical examination and procedures. Always reach out promptly if you experience increased pain, fever, or spreading skin infection.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain or sudden worsening of skin lumps — seek urgent medical care.
• Fever or chills accompanying skin symptoms — possible infection requiring prompt evaluation.
• Rapidly spreading redness, swelling, or pus — may indicate serious infection needing in-person treatment.

What telemedicine can do

• Symptom discussion and monitoring for mild HS.
• Medication management and prescription refills.
• Education on skin care and lifestyle changes.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments and answering questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical procedures such as abscess drainage.
• Detailed skin examinations requiring palpation.
• Emergency situations with severe infection or systemic symptoms.

Understanding Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) usually causes small, painful lumps or nodules under the skin, often in areas like the armpits, groin, or under the breasts. These lumps may come and go but can sometimes become inflamed or tender. HS is a long-term skin condition that can be managed with proper care and treatment. Early management often helps reduce flare-ups and discomfort.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will likely discuss ways to care for your skin at home. This may include:

You may also receive advice on lifestyle changes such as weight management or smoking cessation if relevant. Your provider might schedule follow-up visits to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.

Monitoring Your Symptoms at Home

It’s important to keep track of your symptoms between visits. Watch for changes such as:

Keeping a symptom diary or taking photos can help you and your provider understand how your condition is evolving.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some situations require urgent in-person medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider or visit an emergency facility if you experience:

These signs may indicate infection or complications needing physical examination and treatment.

Benefits and Limits of Telemedicine for HS

Telemedicine is useful for:

However, telemedicine cannot:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Prepare a list of your current symptoms and any changes since your last visit.
• Have a list of all medications and supplements you are taking.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for the video call.
• Be ready to show affected skin areas clearly if comfortable and safe to do so.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the skin care and medication instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Attend scheduled follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits.
• Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you notice any red flags or worsening symptoms.
• Maintain recommended lifestyle changes such as avoiding skin irritation and managing weight if advised.

FAQs

Can telemedicine visits effectively manage mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Yes, telemedicine visits can help manage mild HS by allowing you to discuss symptoms, receive treatment advice, and get prescriptions. However, some situations may require in-person care.

What should I do if my HS symptoms worsen after a telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen, especially with increased pain, fever, or spreading redness, contact your healthcare provider promptly. You may need an in-person evaluation.

How can I prepare for a telemedicine visit about HS?

Prepare by listing your symptoms, medications, and questions. Ensure good lighting and privacy for the call, and be ready to show affected skin areas if comfortable.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage HS?

Yes, lifestyle changes such as wearing loose clothing, maintaining good hygiene, managing weight, and avoiding skin irritation may help reduce flare-ups.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for HS?

No, telemedicine is useful for many aspects of HS care but cannot replace physical exams or procedures needed for severe or complicated cases.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. Always seek immediate medical attention for emergencies or worsening symptoms.