While there is still a lot to learn about HS, it is known that it can increase your risk of other potentially serious health issues. Here are six major ones to be aware of:
1. Metabolic Syndrome
HS appears to be linked to a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions — high blood pressure, excess body fat around the waist, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol or triglycerides — that often occur together.
According to an analysis of studies, there is a strong association between HS and metabolic syndrome.
Left unmanaged, metabolic syndrome can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. While there are many ways to address metabolic syndrome, making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and increasing exercise, may help reduce the risk of serious complications.
2. Axial Spondyloarthritis
This type of arthritis mainly affects the axial skeleton — the chest, spine, and pelvis — though for some it can affect the digestive system, skin, and eyes.
Research has indicated that HS may be more common in those who also experience this condition. One study of axial spondyloarthritis patients found that HS was more prevalent in that group compared with the general population.
The main symptom of axial spondyloarthritis is pain in the lower back.
Treatment for the condition varies but may include medication, physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.
3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Otherwise known as IBD, inflammatory bowel disease is an umbrella term used for disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. The two main types are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
People with IBD may experience diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue, and treatment may require medications, nutritional support, and, in some cases, surgery.
A comprehensive review of large-scale studies found a significant association between HS and the risk of IBD in patients. Based on their findings, the study authors suggested that people with HS who experience recurrent symptoms like diarrhea, bloody stool, and abdominal pain see a gastroenterologist.
4. Cardiovascular Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States: One person dies every 33 seconds from it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
There are many forms of heart disease and causes of cardiovascular-related death, but research has shown that HS is associated with significantly increased risks of adverse cardiovascular-related outcomes, such as stroke, heart attack, and death.
In a study, researchers found that having HS significantly increased the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Heart disease treatment varies widely from case to case, but lifestyle modifications and medications may be necessary, as well as medical procedures or surgeries in some cases.
5. Depression, Anxiety, and Suicide Risk
Skin disorders that cause visible symptoms can take an emotional toll and contribute to low self-worth, embarrassment, and social isolation. This, in turn, may increase risk for anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts and generally affect quality of life.
One research analysis found that depression and anxiety are common in people with HS. Given this link, the researchers recommend that clinicians watch for symptoms of mental health conditions that can accompany HS and refer patients for appropriate care.
6. Sexual Dysfunction
There are many forms of sexual dysfunction, but the term generally applies to any problem that prevents a person or couple from experiencing satisfaction from sexual activity.
According to one study, about half of people with HS experience sexual dysfunction. The research indicated that being in a stable relationship seemed to protect women with HS from developing sexual dysfunction and suggested that the issue may be partially related to extreme pain, active lesions, and other symptoms.
Treatment for sexual dysfunction depends on the cause and circumstances because both physical and psychological factors may be at play, but medications and psychotherapy may be helpful.