HS Need-Now-Bag. And things to put in it.

We’ve all encountered some form of this in our lives. An HS SITUATION. It always manages to catch you off guard, especially when you’re unprepared. Whether it’s the difficulty of changing bandages, not having the items or tools, to bloodstains on clothing and finding yourself without clothes. So many SITUATIONS.  

I suggest creating an “HS Need-Now-Bag” containing essential HS items. This could make your life much easier! 

First, you’ll need a bag of some kind

It can be anything from a lunch style paper bag, silicone zip storage bags, drawstring bags, to travel/makeup style. You don’t have to compromise style if it’s important to you. You can find a wide selection of carry bags, cross bags, and fanny packs online, suitable for all genders.  

Below are just a few examples 

The size is determined by how many items you fill it with and if you are trying to stay discreet. 

Looking for discreet? Think about common dimensions, around 9 inches wide and 6 inches long (height). If you prefer a smaller size, consider an 8 inch wide by 5 inch long (height) option. Typically, these sizes are small enough to fit in a purse, backpack, or something similar. But feel free to go bigger. 

_{Note: with the common makeup / travel type of bags, ensure the bottom width is a minimum of 1 to 2 inches, regardless of overall size. Make sure you verify that measurement (anything smaller won’t provide enough space).} 

Below is a list of things you might want to keep in your HS Need-Now-Bag

• Gauze, ABD pads. Any sterile product for absorbing drainage.
• Medical Tape. To hold bandages in place when applicable. 
• A small pair of scissors. To cut tape, gauze, etc. 
• Travel saline solution swabs or wipes. To clean your HS areas. 
• Individually wrapped wipes or witch hazel wipes. These can be for your HS areas and can be used to wipe up any messes.
• Travel size hand sanitizer. To keep your hands clean before and after handling your HS areas.  
• Pain relievers. As prescribed by doctor.
• Small hydrocortisone or any type of cream for itching if this is an issue for you. 
• Some lidocaine or numbing type product. To help with pain and itching.
• Some drawing salve, or diaper cream, etc. Products to help soothe the HS area.
• Travel size tissues or a few pieces of paper towel. To wipe up any messes.

Tidbit

You can generally fit all the items suggested above, and more, in the 9W by 8L (tall) size bags. Going smaller may require a few adjustments, which are really simple to make.

Optional Items:  

• A disposable bag. Meant for throwing away soiled clothes and bandages, etc.
• A 2oz bottle filled with plain water. It has many uses, such as cleaning up messes. Unless this is sterile water, do not use on wounds.
• Disposable Gloves.
• A small gel ice pack (if you can keep it cool).
• Have a spare set of clothes available in your car, bag, or workplace.
• Inspirational affirmation cards with positive and motivational quotes.

Personalize items to your personal needs. 

I hope you find this valuable beyond being a practical tip and making life less complicated. 

The bag’s style, size, and contents contribute to the empowerment this all represents. Feeling empowered comes from having some control over something with your HS and health. That can be very important for some, especially those who are feeling extra defeated. It's also about you taking stock in your health and HS journey.

In light of that. Because this is YOUR HS journey. Choose what’s most practical and comfortable for your everyday activities and HS routine. Start by listing essential items for a crisis, then consider what would make things easier, followed by comfort, and so forth. Or go big and throw it all in! Keep one (or several) close at hand for when you need it. 

You can also use this concept when going out to dinner, out with friends, on a road trip or traveling.

_{Special Note: Researched, compiled, and written by Denise Fixsen. This information is backed by my 46 years of living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, 10 years of dealing with multiple chronic illnesses, 36 years of advocacy, and continuous education. And to ensure accuracy, reliability, and trustworthiness, I incorporate peer-reviewed studies and other high-quality sources into my articles and material. I also wanted to inform you that I’ve chosen to end my collaboration with editors on my articles. Although there may be grammar errors due to brain illnesses (mostly), with this said, my content remains reliable, factual, and solid. With genuine TLC.}

_{Medical Disclaimer: This content is solely for information, education, and support. The purpose is not to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatments. FDA Disclaimer: any materials mentioning treatments, procedures, supplements, etc., have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended for diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing any disease or health condition.}

_{Sources: Years of behavioral data from HS support groups, combined with experience mentioned above.}

_{Article posted on 09-13-2024}