Hirsutism

♦️What is Hirsutism?

✔️Hirsutism is a common condition characterized by excessive hair growth in women. It can occur in women of all age groups and may pose social, psychological and self-esteem issues.

The condition is relatively common and affects 5-10 percent of the world’s population.

♦️What are its main associated signs and symptoms?

✔️Hirsutism triggers with the onslaught of puberty. The chief symptom is the growth of male hair type in women. Furthermore, the condition is characterized by growth of hair similar to the scalp on:

Upper lip

Sideburns

Chin

Around the nipples

Lower side of abdomen

Other symptoms commonly seen in hirsutism are:

Oily skin

Balding forehead

Acne

Irregular periods

Heavy voice

Changes in clitoris

Infertility 

✔️However, in advanced cases, hair growth is generalized to cover the portions of upper back, central chest region and whole or upper regions of abdomen.  

♦️What are its main causes?

Excessive androgen levels in women are a major reason for hirsutism. Other than that:

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and obesity

Menopause and associated hormonal imbalance  

Medications

Adrenal hyperplasia

Cushing syndrome

Thyroid dysfunction

In extremely rare instances, androgen-secreting tumours may cause hirsutism

♦️How is it diagnosed and treated?

A medical history along with a thorough physical examination followed by an ultrasound scan to determine the condition of ovaries are the first steps to diagnose the cause behind hirsutism. Androgen levels might be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.