Im just going through a really bad flare up and am stuck in bed.
I used to love going on long walks, going out dancing, or planning a day trip.
Now, they are things I can rarely do.
God & Man
HS causes painful abscesses and boils to occur near hair follicles, such as the underarms and groin.
Since my diagnosis, I have tried numerous prescription medications and treatments.
My dresser drawers are filled with oils, creams, supplements, and so on.
God & Man
Yet I still have flare-ups at least once a week.
While its affected my entire life everything from my self-esteem to work my social life has been upended.
I am an extrovert who thrives around people.
@criene
I love planning dinner parties and joining friends on adventures.
Every canceled plan makes me feel guilty and depressed.
The grief cycle never ends.
It restarts every time I have to postpone plans or tell a friend I cant hang out with them.
There have been so many birthdays and parties missed due to the pain.
I spend many days alone in my bed, only leaving my room to eat and walk the dog.
Some people found me to be flaky or unreliable.
Others couldnt deal with someone who was so sad and in pain all of the time.
I try so hard to mask my physical pain, but sometimes its just too hard to hide.
Its always on my mind.
A good day is one where the pain is a five out of ten.
On a great day, I can block out the pain totally.
But its always there.
Im constantly thinking about my HS from the moment I wake up.
My HS has forced me to redefine my social life and what my support system looks like.
Firstly, its challenged me to be honest with my friends and ask for what I need.
Ive learned how to advocate for myself and not assume that people know what I need.
Its just too much pressure to have a friend totally relying on me.
On my good days, I give back and take advantage of the time Im given.
I support my friends through their challenges and hard times.
I reach out to say thank you.
I check in on people.
I make last minute plans.
I go on random adventures.
And on the bad days, I sit with my feelings and allow myself to grieve.
