Is HS fatal?

I am glad this person has you as a support. While this disease is often diagnosed as an autoimmune. I have not heard of it being fatal per se. However my doctor has made it very clear the the infection can cause complications. This is why its important to watch for red streaks, fever and headache. Is it possible for you to go to an appt as well? It sounds like this person is experiencing some hopelessness. Maybe you can compile a list of questions together for the dermatologist. This way the person still feels in control.

Thanks for coming to this discussion boards to educate yourself for your friend. While HS is technically incurable (though many find treatments that put their symptoms in remission) the disease is not, in itself, fatal by any means. HS is usually only found in places that hair grows and/or where skin touches skin, such as groin, armpits, etc. Though I’m not a doctor, I cannot imagine that his entire body will be taken over by HS. If a flare up is completely neglected and a deeper infection arises it could be dangerous, but it sounds like your friends’ most threatening issue is his mental state. HS takes a huge toll on one’s mental health, and staying strong is very difficult. There are opportunities to improve his condition through medical treatment such as Humira, diet change, co2 laser surgery, etc. I got my surgery in October and haven’t had a flare since. Seeing a dermatologist and discussing treatment options sounds like the next step your friend needs to take. I’d also recommend he comes here and joins this forum!! It’s a great place to discuss your feelings with likeminded people. Thanks for your concern and I wish you and your friend the best.

Please, please please google search using the key words HS and celiacs. You will come across true stories from people and very few doctors who have made the genetic conection that HS is a response to celiacs. Removing ALL gluten will clear up HS in just 3 weeks. Some people reported removing dairy and soy in addition to the gluten ( some dairy and soy when processed contains glutamines) put it in total remission. This isn't known to most doctors as its just getting recent attention in the last year. Your doctors will all say that its not celiacs (it is!). Please read the stories on the connection between HS and celiacs. Your child is having an autoimmune reaction to the gluten. He won't die! Just remove gluten..