•  
  •  

Blocked Sweat Glands

Topic Overview

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a blockage of the sweat glands, usually in the armpits, and rarely, on the buttocks or groin or under the breasts. Heat, sweat, or incomplete gland development may block sweat glands, forcing sweat and bacteria into the tissue around it, which then becomes infected.

This condition is seen most often in:

  • Black females.
  • People who are overweight.
  • People who spend time in a hot and moist environment.

Symptoms

Hidradenitis suppurativa usually occurs as multiple lumps that:

  • Are firm, tender, and dome-shaped.
  • Vary in size from 1 cm to 3 cm (occasionally larger).
  • May open and drain pus.

This condition is treated with medicine to reduce inflammation and fight infection. But this condition is hard to treat, and if the infection is severe or recurs, surgery may be needed to remove the lumps and cure the infection.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised April 14, 2011

Last Revised: April 14, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.