Understanding your personal triggers can be difficult. For some, triggers are easily identified and for others, it can be more difficult to identify. This is all part of the process when it comes to HS. It’s important to keep in mind that triggers vary greatly from person to person. What is a trigger for one, may not be a trigger for another and some are never able to identify their triggers, which is OK too!
Common triggers include:
- Friction (such as during exercise)
- Fabric choices in clothing (either too tight or too lose creating extra friction)
- Undergarments (bra and underwear)
- Specific foods and/or beverages
- Alcohol consumption
- Stress levels
- Sweat
- Mechanical stress (like sitting in a specific position)
Many studies suggest that loose-fitting cotton clothing is best for those with HS; however, some individuals report that this can actually lead to more flare-ups due to increased friction. Conversely, tighter fitting clothing may provide relief for others by reducing friction. Each person’s experience with triggers is unique and often requires a process of trial and error.
In your journey to discover your triggers, please keep in mind that in many cases there is not just a single trigger, there can be multiple triggers for your HS. Working to discover your triggers can also become stressful, and for many, stress is a trigger. Please consider how you approach trying to identify your triggers.
If stress is a trigger, or thought to be a trigger for you, HS Connect has created the first of its kind mental health program for HS calledHealing Space. There is something for everyone including breathwork, meditation, art therapy, music therapy, movement therapy and more.
In order to track your HS and help identify triggers, we suggest the Papaya App, created by 2 HS experts in collaboration with HS Connect. This app allows you to track everything you need to try and better understand your HS including periods, nutrition, exercise, flare body map, emotion, everything all in one app!
If you suspect that food or nutrition could be triggers for you, Jillian from Embrace Health Nutrition and Cristina from the Nutrition for Hidradenitis Suppurativa provide 1:1 coaching to help with your nutrition goals. Additionally, we have curated a list of product recommendations from fellow HS patients who have shared their experiences with various clothing, undergarments, soaps, and more. Together, we can navigate the HS journey and find what works best for you!