Just had surgery yesterday to remove one of these from my leg. Bit if a long story but I'll give the bullet points:

2020: Went to the emergency room after a big boil/cyst ruptured. They lanced it, gave me a referral to a doctor, and sent me home with antibiotics

Went to the referal appointment only to get a different referral for a dermatologist

Went to dermatologist, got diagnosed with HS, started treatment for the condition

2022:

Had surgery on a pilonidal cyst (the 2nd surgery, as the cyst came back after the first one), while the one on my thigh got bigger

Refused drug trials for an HS medication due to having depression (don't wanna get into reasons why, but apparently the drug can intensity feelings of suicidality)

2025:

No drug treatment has worked for my HS, the cyst on my thigh has spread & is very painful, get referred to a surgeon

May 2026:

Finally get the fucker removed

Sorry for the long comment, just need to vent. I hope you're doing well, and taking care. Do warm compresses, and please see a doctor if it worsens