Advice

Hidradenitis suppurativa: hard to pronounce, hard to live with, and hard to treat

MINNESOTA SPOKESMAN-RECORDER — No one knows for sure what exactly causes HS. One theory is that HS is the result of an abnormality in hair follicles. HS tends to occur when hair follicles become blocked, leading to a clogged hair follicle. When the follicle is blocked, pressure builds up in the follicle, causing a rupture and leakage to the sides of the follicle, deep into the skin. The leakage produces a response by the immune system to the material in the skin. The immune response is in the form of inflammation.

Published

6 years ago

March 31, 2019

Oakland Post

Dr. Charles Crutchfield III MD

Dr. Crutchfield, my cousin had a skin problem where she developed pimples in sensitive areas that would get bigger, become painful, turn into boils and break. The areas would smell bad. She saw a dermatologist and was diagnosed with a condition called “hidradenitis suppurativa.” What is hidradenitis suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that may be caused by an inappropriate response of the body’s immune system.

No one knows for sure what exactly causes HS. One theory is that HS is the result of an abnormality in hair follicles. HS tends to occur when hair follicles become blocked, leading to a clogged hair follicle. When the follicle is blocked, pressure builds up in the follicle, causing a rupture and leakage to the sides of the follicle, deep into the skin. The leakage produces a response by the immune system to the material in the skin. The immune response is in the form of inflammation.

This cycle can repeat itself over and over and in many areas, producing a chronic medical condition. The lesions of HS appear as boils in the skin. The medical term for a boil is an abscess. The abscesses of HS can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Mild: This means a single abscess or a few abscesses that don’t connect or drain. They can be very painful.
Moderate: Commonly, several abscesses are widely separated. These are painful. They may connect and drain with pus and blood.
Severe: Multiple abscesses that are close together and cover large areas. These are painful and drain profusely. The common areas are the scalp, on the neck, around the ears, under the arms, under the breasts, in the groin, and on the backside. These areas coincide closely with hair-bearing areas.

HS starts as pimples in sensitive hair-bearing areas that enlarge and turn into large abscesses that can be extremely painful, connect and rupture, and smell foul. The connection between abscesses is called a sinus tract.

HS is an inflammatory skin disease. It is a chronic medical condition, meaning it lasts for a long time, maybe even a lifetime. Some people mistakenly think that HS is an infection. It is not an infection, but is actually a malfunction of one’s immune system.

There are a lot of misconceptions about HS. Here are some other things you should know:

HS is not the fault of the person who has it.
HS is not transmitted sexually.
HS is not caused by poor personal hygiene.
HS is not contagious.

What are the symptoms of HS?

The lesions of HS are boils or abscesses. They form under the skin in areas where hair grows and the skin may rub together. They are painful and fill with pus and blood. When they get big, the lesions can rupture and release a very foul-smelling fluid. The amount of fluid produced can be quite significant, and in severe cases they can drain all day long, causing the person to have to wear absorbent pads in the areas that need to be changed often.

Larger regions can connect by tunnels in the skin known as fistulas or sinus tracts. Over time some areas can form scars, and new areas can form. The constant drainage of bad-smelling drainage can lead to a foul odor that travels with the affected person.

As one could imagine, the condition is terribly embarrassing and can interfere or prevent normal personal social interactions, leading to an inferior quality of life. As a result, many dermatologists believe that HS is one of the very worst skin diseases to have.

In some cases, HS may temporarily subside, but it often comes back. It may start out as mild but rapidly progress to severe. Being overweight and smoking are two factors that can be managed and have an impact on the severity and progression of the disease.

Treatment

Physicians will recommend smoking cessation and weight reduction. In addition, these treatments are available:

Antibiotics (as anti-inflammatories, not to treat infection)
Steroids
Surgery
Hormone therapy
Immunosuppressant medications
Biologic medications

HS can be devastating for self-esteem and lead to profound depression. If HS is impacting social relationships, self-esteem, and/or depression, it is important to talk to experts in the fields of mental and sexual health. It also may be helpful to join a support group so you can share feelings and information with other people who have HS.

For stubborn or severe cases, you should visit a dermatologist who specializes in HS. These dermatologists are medical doctors who have experience in diagnosing and treating inflammatory conditions of the skin. They understand what you’re going through and can recommend treatment options that are appropriate for you.

There are good treatments for HS, and no one should have to suffer from this terrible condition. Fortunately, there is an FDA-approved biologic treatment (named ‘adalimumab’) for HS.

To find a dermatologist who specializes in the treatment of HS and for a list of national support groups to join, visit www.noBSaboutHS.com.

This article originally appeared in the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder.

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Mortgage Rates Are Dropping: What it Means for California Homeowners and Homebuyers

The Federal Reserve (the Fed), the U.S.’ central bank that dictates interest rates, continues to indicate that a potential rate cut is on the horizon. Not only can this impact affordability for prospective buyers, but it could be advantageous for current homeowners that are locked into higher interest rates. But, what does this all mean? Chase Bank answers some of your questions as it relates to prospective homebuyers and homeowners:

Published

4 weeks ago

October 6, 2024

Oakland Post

Photo provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

Homeownership is more than just a lofty American dream—it’s how many can build generational wealth. For the Black community, 90% of wealth gains come from homeownership, meaning that owning a home continues to be a crucial method for Black and Latino households to build and accumulate wealth.

But, what does this all mean? Chase Bank answers some of your questions as it relates to prospective homebuyers and homeowners:

What role do interest rates play in buying a home?
Mortgages respond to market conditions, including the Fed’s monetary policy. As interest rates climb, so do the interest on new mortgages and mortgage payments. Conversely, if rates fall, so does the interest on mortgages. So, buying at a lower rate can save you money in mortgage payments.

Should I wait to buy a home once interest rates fall?
Timing the market perfectly is not only challenging, but near impossible to do. While we hope the Fed will cut rates this year, it’s never guaranteed. Lower interest rates can save you money, but they’re not the only factor affecting affordability. So, instead of focusing on perfectly timing the market, we recommend leaning into what you can control: being financially prepared to buy a home.

Outside of readying your finances for homeownership, you can look for options that can lower costs and promote savings such as low down payment mortgages, down payment assistance programs and grants. And don’t forget you always can buy a home now and refinance in the future once rates drop.

How do I prepare myself to buy a home in this current environment?

We not only want consumers to attain homeownership but to sustain it. That’s why it’s important to understand what exactly you can afford before getting into the market. There are a variety of resources to help you prepare financially for buying a home to see how much you can afford in the areas you’re looking to buy, compare loan options and obtain a free credit score. You’ll also want to start compiling all of your necessary documents for pre-approval, such as W2s, bank statements, income documentation, etc.

What about the down payment? Do I need to have 20% of the home cost saved up?

Most first-time home buyers are singularly focused on saving for a down payment. However, long gone are the days of putting down 20% of the purchase price – low down payment loan options are available with some requiring as low as 3% down. Plus, there are a variety of incentives and grants that can lower your costs. For instance, Chase offers a homebuyer grant of up to $7,500, where eligible, to help with the interest rate, closing costs, and the down payment. These grants are offered in low- to moderate-income communities and neighborhoods that are designated by the U.S. Census as majority-Black, Hispanic and/or Latino.

Should I only work with one lender for my mortgage?

Studies show that 45% of borrowers who shopped around for mortgages received lower offers. Make lenders compete for your business – many have varying fees and closing costs that can add up. Also, interest rates can fluctuate daily, so lock in your rate with your lender if they offer that option for extra peace of mind.

I’m an existing homebuyer. How does a rate cut impact my situation?

It can be a good time to refinance when interest rates are going down, especially for those with rates above or at 7%. For current homeowners looking to refinance, we advise them to keep their end goal in mind as they consider whether refinancing makes sense for their personal situation. Work with your local advisor or using a Refinance Savings Calculator to understand when it makes sense for your specific situation to refinance.

Why should I refinance when rates are lower?

When interest rates are lower, you may be able to refinance your loan for a shorter term without seeing much of a change in your monthly payment. Even if your payments are higher, you may see significant savings over the life of your loan by making fewer interest payments. For example, you may decide to refinance a 30-year loan into a 15-year loan. While it has higher monthly payments, you’ll pay the loan down faster and pay less in interest.

Whether we’ll see a rate cut or not, there are many tools for first-time homebuyers and experienced owners to keep homeownership affordable and sustainable. For more information visit Chase.com/afford to start your journey, invest in your future and save in the long run.

For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any individual. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy.

Deposit products provided JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

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Activism

Leading with Action, Love and Data Points: Six Questions for the California Black Women’s Collective

“Black Women in California have always had to be active participants in the labor market, but this report showcases the need for fair and just wages even for those of us with higher educational attainment,” said Kellie Todd-Griffin, President and Chief Executive Officer of the California Black Women’s Collective.

Published

10 months ago

January 1, 2024

Oakland Post

Kellie Todd Griffin, CEO CA Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

The California Black Women’s Collective (CABWC) is a sisterhood of women from different professional backgrounds aiming to uplift and address the issues impacting Black women and girls in the state. They approach problem-solving with a range of expertise — from politics, business, and community advocacy to the arts, entertainment, social justice activism, and more.

Earlier this month, the organization released a wage report focused on Black women’s earnings in California titled “Pay Me What I am Worth.”

“Black Women in California wages are below the state mean wage and make less than most of their female counterparts in every category,” continued Todd-Griffin. “We must take action now.”

CABWC’s Black Girl Joy Festival is an event designed to uplift Black Women and Girls in a safe space while learning and having fun. The festival includes free workshops that prepare women for college, dancing, self-defense training, health screenings, yoga, arts & crafts, and food vendors.

The Collective’s Empowerment Institute, launched in collaboration with the Los Angeles-based research firm EVITARUS, produces the annual California Black Women’s Quality of Life Survey.

California Black Media spoke with Todd-Griffin about the organization’s impact, challenges it faces and some of its near-term plans.

What does your organization do to improve the lives of Black people in California?

The California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute’s uplifts the issues and voices of Black Women and Girls in California through our programming. That includes the Black Women’s Worker Initiative that helps Black Women prepare for public section and non-traditional careers. Other initiatives are the CA Black Women’s Leadership Development Certificate program at CSU Dominguez Hills; Black Girl Joy Festival for middle and high school students; Conversations for Black Women, etc. Our targeted research also uncovers solutions to the toughest challenges Black women and girls face.

What was your greatest success over the course of the last year?

We released the first-ever California Black Women’s Quality of Life Survey. This study collected insights from 1,258 Black women voters across California to understand their economic state, most pressing concerns, their attitudes toward policymakers, and their experiences and issues in California.

In your view, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Black Californians, especially Black Women, continue to be left out of the conversation when it comes to building meaningful change to improve the lives of those who struggle the most.

What was your organization’s biggest challenge?

Our biggest challenge over the last year was transitioning from a volunteer driven entity, the California Black Women’s Collective, to creating a non-profit organization, the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute.

Does your organization support or plan to get involved in the push for reparations in California?

Absolutely!

How can more Californians of all backgrounds get involved in the work you’re doing?

We are on all the social media channels. They can also visit our website, www.CABlackWomensCollective.org.

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Activism

The Silent Struggle of Pregnancy Loss

It is a tragedy that Black women’s odds of pregnancy loss are much higher than the general population. It’s even more tragic that there is a Black woman reading this article who has experienced pregnancy loss and has suffered in silence. There are an array of feelings associated with pregnancy loss, and women often feel alone and isolated in these feelings believing that no one understands what they are going through.

Published

11 months ago

December 15, 2023

Oakland Post

Narissa Harris. Photo Credit Art Harris.

By Narissa Harris, LMFT

The topic and contents of this article may be difficult for some readers. Yet, it is of paramount importance to shed light on the silent struggle of pregnancy loss experienced by countless women.

During the holiday season, we often assume everyone is in a festive, happy mood. However, this time of year is filled with mixed emotions and can be especially difficult for Black women, who are 2-3 times more likely to experience a pregnancy loss compared to other women. Pregnancy loss (the death of an unborn baby/fetus during pregnancy) is experienced by 10-15% of women and doubles to 20-30% for Black women. Additionally, Black women are 3 times more likely to have a stillbirth in comparison to other women.

It is a tragedy that Black women’s odds of pregnancy loss are much higher than the general population. It’s even more tragic that there is a Black woman reading this article who has experienced pregnancy loss and has suffered in silence. There are an array of feelings associated with pregnancy loss, and women often feel alone and isolated in these feelings, believing that no one understands what they are going through.

Whether you are aware that someone has experienced pregnancy loss, or you have experienced pregnancy loss yourself, we must be sensitive and supportive to the women in our lives during this time of year. I encourage the following:

#1 – Don’t ask a woman about her uterus!

Yes, I know this is blunt and harsh, but it is important to be mindful of the trauma that may be triggered when asking a woman when she plans to have a baby. I will never forget being at a holiday party when a family member asked me when I was planning on having kids, unaware that I experienced my 3rd pregnancy loss just 6 weeks prior. It was triggering, upsetting, and annoying. While my husband and I were eventually blessed with 2 healthy children, I share my experience to reiterate the immediate and long-term harm caused by these types of invasive inquiries.

#2 – Connect with a supportive community!

If you are someone who has experienced a pregnancy loss or know a woman who has, it is vital to connect with a safe and supportive community even when everything is telling you (or that woman) to isolate. While no one in the chapter knew that I was dealing with pregnancy loss at the time, my connection with the Bay Area Chapter of the Association of Black Psychologists (Bay-ABPsi) served as a healing and uplifting space for my grief/loss. I learned from Baba Dr. Wade Nobles, who describes babies as divine and the closest beings to God. I want you to remember that connecting with our spiritual community and ancestors can offer healing and support.

#3 – Never lose hope!

To the women who have experienced pregnancy loss, it’s easy to believe that a successful pregnancy will not happen but keep the hope. Take the time you need to grieve and release the baby (or babies), allowing your womb to heal. View the lost pregnancy in terms of a spirit with a Divine purpose, even if it was short-lived, with you being the vessel for that Divine purpose. Believe and prepare for your baby, who will survive and succeed beyond the womb to fulfill their Divine purpose!

Bay ABPsi is a healing resource committed to providing the Post Newspaper readership with monthly discussions about critical issues in Black Mental Health. Readers are welcome to contact us at bayareaabpsi@gmail.com and join us at our monthly chapter meetings every 3rd Saturday via Zoom.