Hirsutism
Hirsutism is a condition in women that results in excessive hair growth (dark or coarse) in areas where hair is minimal or absent such as face, chest and back. Hirsutism can affect up to 10% of women. Although it is not a serious medical condition, it can affect women emotionally and psychologically resulting in low confidence and low self-esteem.
What are the symptoms of hirsutism?
When the androgen levels rise, other symptoms may start to rise because of a condition called virilization.
The symptoms may include:
- Deepening voice
- Balding
- Acne
- Decreased breast size
- Increased muscle mass
- Enlargement of the clitoris
- Irregular periods
What are the causes of Hirsutism?
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It often begins with puberty, causes an imbalance of the sex hormones. This may result in excess hair growth, irregular periods and infertility. This is the most common cause of Hirsutism.
- Cushing syndrome: This occurs when there is a high level of cortisol in your body. It can be caused by a disorder in your adrenal gland, resulting in producing too much amount of cortisol, or by having medications like prednisone over a long period.
- Ovarian Tumours: Rarely the presence of tumours, in ovaries or adrenal glands, that secrete androgens can cause hirsutism.
- Congenital disorders: Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), a rare genetic disorder affecting the adrenal glands, leading to an excess production of androgens resulting in Hirsutism.
- Medications: Certain medications such as anabolic steroids can cause hirsutism as a side effect.
- Idiopathic: In some cases, the cause of hirsutism may not be identified, and it is called as idiopathic hirsutism.
How is Hirsutism evaluated?
Evaluating hirsutism requires a thorough history and physical examination – to assess symptoms and signs of clinical hyperandrogenism.
- Hormonal testing to check the level of androgens
- Imaging to ensure if there are any tumours of ovaries and adrenal glands.
When to see us?
If you think you have too much coarse hair on your face or body, do not hesitate to reach out to Rockingham Women’s Health Centre on 0895918943 to book an appointment or www.rockinghamwomenshealth.com.au
