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The Hidden Plague: A Field Guide For Surviving and Overcoming Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Have you been plagued with boils, cysts, ingrown hairs, and acne-like bumps that take months to resolve, leave embarrassing scars, and cause considerable pain? Have you been to the doctor, only to leave with a prescription for antibiotics, few answers, and little to no hope? Hidradenitis supprativa (HS) is a poorly understood skin condition that is believed to affect nearly twelve million people in the United States alone. Only a small fraction of those affected have been properly diagnosed, leaving many others to suffer in silence or pursue ill-advised conventional treatment methods that fail to address the cause of this painful condition.
Tara Grant, a twenty-year sufferer of HS, has become an underground legend to her Internet community of HS victims by presenting a methodical, self-tested action plan to heal naturally. The centerpiece of her holistic approach rests on the understanding that HS is an autoimmune disorder caused by leaky gut syndrome. With a few simple dietary changes that eliminate certain “trigger” foods, you can heal your gut, restore your skin, reclaim your health, and rid yourself of HS symptoms forever. That’s it—no antibiotics, no experimental surgeries, and no more pain, suffering, or confusion.
Q&A with Tara
1. What was it about the subject you chose to write about in your book that made you feel so passionate about spreading the word and getting your book published?
My motivation for writing this book was the overwhelming response I received from people on the Internet when I originally posted about it in March of 2012. It turns out it’s a pretty common condition, but many people (and doctors) don’t know what it is. It’s pretty standard to visit various doctors, and be told that you have “acne,” or to be subjected to butchering surgeries. There is no treatment for HS, according to the doctors. People with it suffer immensely—in fact, HS is acknowledged to be one of most painful conditions in the world. I’ve even received letters from doctors and nurses who suffer from HS, thanking me for telling them what it is that they have—and for offering them hope.
The primary motivating factor for writing this book, however, was an email I received from a 12-year old girl, who said she was going to kill herself because of the pain she was in. I immediately wrote her back, but I never heard back from her. I am desperate to know that she’s okay. I don’t want anyone else to go through what I did as a teenager—I myself thought about suicide on more than one occasion. I’ve had many letters from people who say they want to kill themselves since.
2. HS is hard to diagnose, and many doctors aren’t even aware of its existence. How did you get a diagnosis?
I’ve had HS since I was thirteen years old, but wasn’t diagnosed until I was in my mid-30s. Up until then, I saw over forty doctors from four different countries - none of whom could tell me what was wrong with me. I eventually found the name “Hidradenitis suppurativa” in a book about PCOS (also known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, which I also had) and could finally put a name to the horrible condition I had suffered from for so long. I took that information to a dermatologist. That’s when I finally got a diagnosis—over twenty years later. At that time, I had already changed to a Primal diet and my HS was drastically better, so I declined the antibiotics and Accutane the doctor prescribed. I also refused to believe what she “You have to live with this for the rest of your life.” I knew, as a longtime sufferer of HS, that the doctors I had seen had no clue what they were talking about.
My journey was extremely frustrating, and I went through it completely alone. Over the years, I was told I had “adult acne,” and also told that they didn’t know what was wrong with me. I was also told that I was overreacting, not keeping clean enough, and told to lose weight. Not a single doctor showed any compassion, or was willing to look into the matter further. I eventually stopped going to the doctors, and didn’t return until I had already made changes and knew I was on the right track. I knew that if I wanted answers, I had to do the research and experimentation myself. I wasn't interested in how I reacted to different drug, I was interested in healing myself naturally.
I knew that I was on the right track with diet, so I started investigating Robb Wolf’s Autoimmune Paleo Protocol, and made specific tweaks for skin conditions. Results I had seen from others (Dr. Terry Wahls, for example) who had healed themselves from crippling autoimmune conditions were the only motivation I needed. When I started treating HS like an autoimmune condition, it went into remission. There are literally thousands of cases of this happening with different autoimmune conditions all over the world. I was also able to induce flare-ups with specific experimentation. This completely checks with autoimmunity. There isn’t a cure—you will always have the predisposition fo...
Tara Grant, a twenty-year sufferer of HS, has become an underground legend to her Internet community of HS victims by presenting a methodical, self-tested action plan to heal naturally. The centerpiece of her holistic approach rests on the understanding that HS is an autoimmune disorder caused by leaky gut syndrome. With a few simple dietary changes that eliminate certain “trigger” foods, you can heal your gut, restore your skin, reclaim your health, and rid yourself of HS symptoms forever. That’s it—no antibiotics, no experimental surgeries, and no more pain, suffering, or confusion.
Q&A with Tara
1. What was it about the subject you chose to write about in your book that made you feel so passionate about spreading the word and getting your book published?
My motivation for writing this book was the overwhelming response I received from people on the Internet when I originally posted about it in March of 2012. It turns out it’s a pretty common condition, but many people (and doctors) don’t know what it is. It’s pretty standard to visit various doctors, and be told that you have “acne,” or to be subjected to butchering surgeries. There is no treatment for HS, according to the doctors. People with it suffer immensely—in fact, HS is acknowledged to be one of most painful conditions in the world. I’ve even received letters from doctors and nurses who suffer from HS, thanking me for telling them what it is that they have—and for offering them hope.
The primary motivating factor for writing this book, however, was an email I received from a 12-year old girl, who said she was going to kill herself because of the pain she was in. I immediately wrote her back, but I never heard back from her. I am desperate to know that she’s okay. I don’t want anyone else to go through what I did as a teenager—I myself thought about suicide on more than one occasion. I’ve had many letters from people who say they want to kill themselves since.
2. HS is hard to diagnose, and many doctors aren’t even aware of its existence. How did you get a diagnosis?
I’ve had HS since I was thirteen years old, but wasn’t diagnosed until I was in my mid-30s. Up until then, I saw over forty doctors from four different countries - none of whom could tell me what was wrong with me. I eventually found the name “Hidradenitis suppurativa” in a book about PCOS (also known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, which I also had) and could finally put a name to the horrible condition I had suffered from for so long. I took that information to a dermatologist. That’s when I finally got a diagnosis—over twenty years later. At that time, I had already changed to a Primal diet and my HS was drastically better, so I declined the antibiotics and Accutane the doctor prescribed. I also refused to believe what she “You have to live with this for the rest of your life.” I knew, as a longtime sufferer of HS, that the doctors I had seen had no clue what they were talking about.
My journey was extremely frustrating, and I went through it completely alone. Over the years, I was told I had “adult acne,” and also told that they didn’t know what was wrong with me. I was also told that I was overreacting, not keeping clean enough, and told to lose weight. Not a single doctor showed any compassion, or was willing to look into the matter further. I eventually stopped going to the doctors, and didn’t return until I had already made changes and knew I was on the right track. I knew that if I wanted answers, I had to do the research and experimentation myself. I wasn't interested in how I reacted to different drug, I was interested in healing myself naturally.
I knew that I was on the right track with diet, so I started investigating Robb Wolf’s Autoimmune Paleo Protocol, and made specific tweaks for skin conditions. Results I had seen from others (Dr. Terry Wahls, for example) who had healed themselves from crippling autoimmune conditions were the only motivation I needed. When I started treating HS like an autoimmune condition, it went into remission. There are literally thousands of cases of this happening with different autoimmune conditions all over the world. I was also able to induce flare-ups with specific experimentation. This completely checks with autoimmunity. There isn’t a cure—you will always have the predisposition fo...
280 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2013
124 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 9, 2016
I'm definitely more of a Starch Solution gal when it comes to my dietary choices, so I knew it would take some convincing to get me to love a book so focused on the paleo diet. And, I'm not sure if it's because I lost interest or because it felt a little redundant, but I really didn't love this book nor did it really get me curious about trying a paleo lifestyle. I thought the sections about the basics of digestion and auto-immunity and digestion were pretty well done, and I liked the concept of healing an auto-immune disorder with dietary changes -- so, in that sense, I guess the book was successful. Beyond that, it was just... "OKAY"-- I doubt I'll ever read it again or look that much into anything I read here again in the future.
December 21, 2018
So good it should be translated to all languages!
Extremely informative for those who suffer from HS.
Extremely informative for those who suffer from HS.
July 4, 2023
Very detailed and insightful. Could have done without a lot of the scientific "why" details personally, but overall an incredibly helpful and valuable read. My copy is marked up enormously with highlighter colors.
November 4, 2022
POPSUGAR 2022: A book with a recipe in it
As a longtime HS sufferer, I was really looking forward to reading this book (a gift from my mother, also a sufferer). However, once I started reading it, I realized that this book is, like so many books on autoimmunity, filled with fearmongering testimonials and foodshaming. The reason I give this book three stars is for the actual information about HS and debunking various topical snake oils (all of which it feels like I've tried). Reading about how autoimmune disorders work and specifically how HS works was so refreshing and empowering. Knowing that this is a condition, which has been haunting me since my teens, that is not shameful or nasty, made me feel like I had just been unlaced from a corset. I felt free and like I could breathe again. This book goes into what we know about HS (which is shamefully under-researched (not surprisingly, considering that the sufferers tend to be fat women, and the only research directed towards us is how to make us not fat), gives testimonial experiences of life with HS, and discusses different medical and surgical options. There is no cure, but it is possible to go into remission, and the book goes into that as well.
While I appreciate the holistic approach to illness and disorders, and I do believe that nutrition has a huge part in reducing inflammation and in reducing autoimmune responses, I also think that an "all or nothing" approach isn't helpful. Any course that requires absolute perfection is unsustainable. This book places far too much emphasis on nutrition, and demonizes medical and surgical options; to me, that is not a holistic approach. Allowing for grace is crucial, especially with a condition like this, which forces sufferers into the dark.
As a longtime HS sufferer, I was really looking forward to reading this book (a gift from my mother, also a sufferer). However, once I started reading it, I realized that this book is, like so many books on autoimmunity, filled with fearmongering testimonials and foodshaming. The reason I give this book three stars is for the actual information about HS and debunking various topical snake oils (all of which it feels like I've tried). Reading about how autoimmune disorders work and specifically how HS works was so refreshing and empowering. Knowing that this is a condition, which has been haunting me since my teens, that is not shameful or nasty, made me feel like I had just been unlaced from a corset. I felt free and like I could breathe again. This book goes into what we know about HS (which is shamefully under-researched (not surprisingly, considering that the sufferers tend to be fat women, and the only research directed towards us is how to make us not fat), gives testimonial experiences of life with HS, and discusses different medical and surgical options. There is no cure, but it is possible to go into remission, and the book goes into that as well.
While I appreciate the holistic approach to illness and disorders, and I do believe that nutrition has a huge part in reducing inflammation and in reducing autoimmune responses, I also think that an "all or nothing" approach isn't helpful. Any course that requires absolute perfection is unsustainable. This book places far too much emphasis on nutrition, and demonizes medical and surgical options; to me, that is not a holistic approach. Allowing for grace is crucial, especially with a condition like this, which forces sufferers into the dark.
April 6, 2015
An easily read book with lots of recommendations for about every major aspect of life to help deal with autoimmune diseases. Well researched, but at least half (if not most) are biased sources and heavily rely on one person (Loren Cordain, founder of the Paleo movement). Some very good scientific explanations, although for many pieces, only one side of the story is given such that it helps make the case for the Paleo lifestyle. The entire book is so biased in favor of a Paleo lifestyle I considered giving it 2 starts, but since I did get some pointers in a number of areas, I went with 3 stars. Also, her entire argument relies on Leaky Gut Theory, which, while convincing and possibly correct, has yet to be proven by science - so take it with a grain of salt, and not as gospel.
Another minor issue that other people have brought up is the fact that there are glaring typos/mistakes in the book (ex: "intestinal bowel syndrome" instead of "irritable bowel syndrome", or "prostrate" instead of "prostate"). She's no doctor, and she is the first to tell the reader this, but it does hurt her credibility a bit.
Another minor issue that other people have brought up is the fact that there are glaring typos/mistakes in the book (ex: "intestinal bowel syndrome" instead of "irritable bowel syndrome", or "prostrate" instead of "prostate"). She's no doctor, and she is the first to tell the reader this, but it does hurt her credibility a bit.
September 21, 2024
Did not finish - about half. I will praise the book for raising awareness on HS and normalising it to sufferers who often feel deep shame amongst the litany of other emotions and symptoms. However the book is written by a journalist with no medical training, yet delivers medical advice and terminology solely in a way that benefits their argument (paleo diet) and does not give a balanced view. It feels very psuedo sciency. The main turn off for me is that throughout the book the author calls HS an autoimmune disease caused by leaky gut. The condition is not thought to be auto immune, rather auto inflammatory, by health publications and reputable sources, which diminishes all the points the author does have.
October 12, 2018
This book is very helpful, but put me to sleep every night after two pages. Definitely a valuable read for anyone learning about HS and autoimmune disorders as they relate to gut health. Reads like a blog with scientific terminology peppered in. I am a former researcher so that didn't bother me, but the pace and tone wasn't the best.
February 10, 2025
If you are someone who struggles with HS this is a must read. It helped me tremendously with my stage 3 HS and significantly helped reduce the condition and changed my life. If you aren't someone with HS I could see you not getting into the book though.
February 18, 2017
I'm also allergic to eggs and chocolate
January 30, 2018
Incredible book. I'm looking forward to reading it again over the next couple of weeks and taking notes on all of the things I want to make sure I am doing write on my AIP journey.
January 19, 2022
Skimmed. DNF. Essentially the paleo diet and going gluten free is the only solution. 😐
July 8, 2024
If you have hidradenitis supparativa, read this. Some stuff is dated and a lot has come out after this book but it's a great start especially if you aren't finding answers and aid
October 3, 2023
So motivating, inspiring and helpful for those who suffer. I felt so seen with many of my issues being addressed. I will use this book as a resource in the future.
January 5, 2014
I am so grateful that Grant has summoned up the courage and made the effort to speak and write about this topic. Her book and the publicity surrounding it have given me much greater clarity about my own HS and other AI issues.
This book will be less helpful for people who are already steeped in Paleo-land and/or an autoimmune protocol. If words like Paleo / Primal, SAD and AI are new to you, then this will be a very, very valuable resource.
My main reason for purchasing was to get some background on what Tara believes is the mechanistic process behind HS. I think she does a good job outlining her thoughts on the issue.
Where I think the book is weaker is in some of the editing. Examples - "vise versa" and "prostrate cancer" (sic). Unfortunately, these oversights, especially the prostrate for prostate one, make her valuable information seem less compelling than it otherwise would be.
The book is essentially the sum total of everything Tara has learned on the internet over the past few years during a dogged, determined battle against HS. Seen as that, I would give it 4 stars. But because it is a bound book with footnotes and aspirations of being a resource for patients, I hold it to a bit of a higher standard.
That being said, thank you Tara for sharing this information in all the various ways you have. What you are doing matters.
This book will be less helpful for people who are already steeped in Paleo-land and/or an autoimmune protocol. If words like Paleo / Primal, SAD and AI are new to you, then this will be a very, very valuable resource.
My main reason for purchasing was to get some background on what Tara believes is the mechanistic process behind HS. I think she does a good job outlining her thoughts on the issue.
Where I think the book is weaker is in some of the editing. Examples - "vise versa" and "prostrate cancer" (sic). Unfortunately, these oversights, especially the prostrate for prostate one, make her valuable information seem less compelling than it otherwise would be.
The book is essentially the sum total of everything Tara has learned on the internet over the past few years during a dogged, determined battle against HS. Seen as that, I would give it 4 stars. But because it is a bound book with footnotes and aspirations of being a resource for patients, I hold it to a bit of a higher standard.
That being said, thank you Tara for sharing this information in all the various ways you have. What you are doing matters.
November 30, 2013
If you suffer from Hidradenitis suppurativa, or know someone who does, finally, there is hope and the chance of freedom for you. And even if you don’t have it, but have a different manifestation of autoimmune disease, I suggest reading it anyway for its’ step-by-step explanation of a paleo autoimmune elimination diet.
Author, Tara Grant gets down to business and doesn’t mince her words. As a former sufferer and simply dynamite personality, she’s the person to take away the mystique, embarrassment, and downright shame that people with Hidradenitis suppurativa feel. And she does that with this book.
I learned a lot from this book, even though I don't have HS but do have autoimmune disease.
If you have HS covers what the disease is and why you have it. You can learn what to do about it, broadly (systemically fix your diet) and specifically (the process, food lists, recipes, topical treatments). And then there are the success stories.
If you have autoimmune disease and want to support your health by improving your diet, this is a great book, HS or no.
Author, Tara Grant gets down to business and doesn’t mince her words. As a former sufferer and simply dynamite personality, she’s the person to take away the mystique, embarrassment, and downright shame that people with Hidradenitis suppurativa feel. And she does that with this book.
I learned a lot from this book, even though I don't have HS but do have autoimmune disease.
If you have HS covers what the disease is and why you have it. You can learn what to do about it, broadly (systemically fix your diet) and specifically (the process, food lists, recipes, topical treatments). And then there are the success stories.
If you have autoimmune disease and want to support your health by improving your diet, this is a great book, HS or no.
October 31, 2015
This book just changed my life. I'm looking forward to never battling my boils again, along with a handful of other issues I am now attributing to my autoimmunity. Thank you Tara, from one military wife to another. I'm already down 2 lbs just from cutting down my gluten, I'm going gradual because of having to also reintegrate meats back in after being a vegetarian for four years. Xo
December 31, 2019
Life changing! This book was very well researched. It really helped me to understand the science behind what is happening to me. Tara's story and the stories of others are also inspirational and give me hope. All of her information on which foods are good and bad for a paleo diet are also very useful. Thank you, Tara!
August 12, 2021
I just finished this book and for the first time ever I feel like maybe I can live without pain. Is it
ALL goodness and light? No, the author is honest about how much it sucks to have HS. But that there is a clear path she followed to achieve remission is amazing, and she did a great job laying it out so it can be followed by others. I read this book in 2 days flat, including the recipes.
ALL goodness and light? No, the author is honest about how much it sucks to have HS. But that there is a clear path she followed to achieve remission is amazing, and she did a great job laying it out so it can be followed by others. I read this book in 2 days flat, including the recipes.
April 8, 2022
Good book. Spoiler alert - it doesn't give you the cure, as there isn't one. But it gives a lot of good starting points on how to approach the condition and how to keep it in remission. I like that the author doesn't really beat it around the bush. She really gives a holistic approach.
May 19, 2015
Being a sufferer of HS, this book definitely gave me something to thing about. The elimination diet is something that I will definitely try as everything else i have done with little success
June 9, 2015
A must read for those suffering from Hidradenitis supporativa - or boils and cysts. Grant has figured out a way to put it into remission through diet. Hallelujah!
April 7, 2017
A lot of information to process, but it gives me hope. I'm tired of suffering and relying on medication that doesn't work.
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April 28, 2019I suffered from HS under my arms for two years. It was a nightmare. I went to some doctors one at a well known top university hospital in the city i was very disappointed by her respond that it will never cure. She described my condition as mild. I have not read this book. However my family doctor recommended that i should try elemination diet. You can google it to find more information or to know how to do it. I finally cured my HS with diet. Potato is what caused my disease. Since then i have stopped eating potatos all together. I recommend anyone with this inmune disease to try the elimination diet. It will cure you! Have the hope and the trust and you will be completely cured from this vicious disease. God bless all...
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews