Navigating Hidradenitis: a Journey of Hope and Resilience

"You can get help even if you don't have insurance. There's help and resources." - Patient Janet Viera

Dr. Anna Chacon, MD FAAD, hosts a powerful conversation with Janet Viera, a patient courageously sharing her three-year battle with hidradenitis suppurativa. Janet's journey began in 2021 when severe, draining nodules forced her to quit her job and seek specialized care. After finding Dr. Chacon through Sesame Care, Janet discovered effective treatment combining Accutane, Humira, and targeted steroid injections. Her story demonstrates the importance of finding the right dermatologist and maintaining hope. What makes this episode particularly compelling is Janet's experience with the rare follicular tetrad syndrome.

This episode explores the comprehensive treatment approach for moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa, including the challenges of accessing expensive biologics like Humira through patient assistance programs. How does family support impact recovery? What role do workplace accommodations play in managing chronic conditions? Dr. Chacon discusses the follicular occlusion tetrad, injection techniques for acute flares, and the intersection of multiple related conditions. Janet shares practical insights about managing daily life, relationships, and the emotional toll while emphasizing the critical importance of seeking proper medical care.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Janet shares the life-changing moment she found relief within 24 hours

• (05:06) The devastating moment when hidradenitis forced Janet to leave her job

• (12:35) Dr. Chacon explains why Accutane works for draining types of hidradenitis

• (16:39) Breaking down the rare follicular tetrad syndrome affecting multiple body systems

• (19:39) Getting Humira for free through patient assistance programs despite $7,300 monthly cost

• (34:26) Why patients shouldn't give up hope finding the right dermatologist

• Share with a dermatology pro you know, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!

About the show: Welcome to Skin Deep, a podcast designed for dermatology professionals. Host Dr. Anna Chacon, a distinguished dermatologist and author, shares her unique experiences and offers valuable insights on the future of dermatology, including telemedicine and teledermatology in reaching underserved communities. Dr. Chacon provides actionable recommendations for dermatology practices, emphasizing compassion, patient education, and staying current with advancements in the field.

About the host: Dr. Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Indigenous Dermatology, specializes in treating patients in remote and rural communities. As the first dermatologist serving Alaska's Bush region, she travels by bush plane to reach isolated communities. Dr. Chacon holds medical licenses in all 50 states, DC, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, providing both in-person and teledermatology services.

Resources:
Sesame Care Platform

• Website: https://sesamecare.com

• Dr. Anna Chacon's profile: https://sesamecare.com/doctor/an...

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - How to manage a chronic backache without surgery
• (00:00:39) - Janet Vera on her dermatologist
• (00:02:05) - Acne for Women: How debilitating is it?
• (00:06:20) - The Best Couple's Stories
• (00:06:49) - Diabetes patient's journey to a dermatologist
• (00:08:49) - "I didn't like my doctor"
• (00:09:54) - Symptoms of Hydradinitis after one month on Accut
• (00:12:04) - Accutane
• (00:16:49) - Hydradinitis patient on Humira, injections
• (00:18:01) - High cost of dermatology medications
• (00:19:05) - Helping with hydranitis with injections
• (00:22:46) - Has hydradinitis affected your personal life?
• (00:24:15) - Hydranitis patient on social media
• (00:28:24) - One Survivor's message about her chronic throat disease
• (00:33:18) - Tamara on speaking out about her cancer
• (00:38:41) - Don't Give Up on Crohn's!