MCh - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, DNB, MS - General Surgery, MBBS
Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon, Bangalore
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19 years experience
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What causes hirsutism?
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Hirsutism is caused due to the presence of an unusually high amount of androgen or male sex hormones in a female. It can also be caused by an increased sensitivity of androgen receptors in the follicles of the skin. This results in unwanted hair growth in women, which resembles male-pattern hair growth. The primary male sex hormone that is known to cause hirsutism is testosterone. If the amount of male sex hormone is too high, then it may give rise to other conditions such as acne, deep voice and small breasts in women apart from hirsutism. Note that this condition can be successfully treated, and the level of androgen hormone in your system can be lowered. Once treated, this condition will most likely not reappear.
Which of these is a common symptom of hirsutism in women?
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The most common symptom of hirsutism is excess body hair. This can be accompanied with the irregularity of the menstrual cycle and excessive acne. One may also notice symptoms such as deepening of the voice, the onset of male pattern baldness, sudden enlargement of muscles and clitoris. Body hair may become coarse, instead of being smooth and fine. These symptoms indicate that there is an overproduction of androgen in the patient s body. Patients are advised to contact a licensed medical practitioner immediately once they notice any of these symptoms to start treatment.
A healthy diet and exercise can be beneficial to combat hirsutism.
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Healthy diet and exercise are two very common natural remedies to treat hirsutism. Hirsutism is widely associated with being overweight; exercise helps to lose that extra body weight. Patients suffering from this condition should avoid red meat and sugar. Overly refined foods such as pasta and white bread may also increase the risk of hirsutism among women. Abstaining from these foods may result in the symptoms to lessening and gradually disappearing. Consume about 35 to 45 grams of fiber per day, along with lean protein. Patients should also try taking half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day with their meals.
Medications such as oral contraceptives and anti-androgens drugs are free from side-effects.
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Physicians often prescribe oral contraceptives to treat the condition by producing fewer male hormones. These birth control pills contain estrogen and progestin that help to improve the condition of the patient. However, they are not free from side effects and are known to cause nausea, upset stomach and dizziness. The anti-androgen blockers help your body to produce and use lesser male hormones. However, these are known to cause birth defects. Always consult a licensed physician before starting any medication for treating this condition.
Laser hair removal is the latest and most effective treatment to get rid of excess hair caused by hirsutism.
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Most Laser hair removal treatments are considered safe if performed properly. In most cases, hair removal is permanent, although some women may see re-growth. The hair pigment absorbs the heat from the rays, and as a result, the hair in the area is destroyed. Laser treatments should be used along with proper medications that suppress the excess production of androgen and prevent the growth of new hair in the area. Consult a doctor before starting this treatment. Since such treatments are expensive, it is advisable to go to a reputed organization with skilled professionals.
