Ladies who are diagnosed with hirsutism have excessive facial, chest, along with back hair growth.
While the presence of body hair is normal for all genders, hirsutism is often associated with underlying hormonal imbalances or medical conditions.
Research from International Journal of Women’s Dermatology tilted ‘Endocrine Evaluation Of Hirsutism’ revealed that hirsutism is an endocrine disorder that affects 5 to 10% of reproductive-age women in the population.
Although hirsutism affects but is difficult to be noticed, it is noted that this medical condition is common among dark-skinned individuals.
However, in children, hirsutism is a sign of precocious puberty, which means rapid growth, which is when children’s bodies begin to change into adult bodies too soon.
Women who discontinue oral contraceptives and gain weight are likely to have hirsutism.
Let’s delve deep into what you need to know about the underlying medical condition.
What is hirsutism?
Hirsutism refers to the presence of terminal hair with male distribution in women on their faces, chest, and back.
Causes of hirsutism
The primary cause of hirsutism is an excess of androgens, the male hormones present in both men and women but typically in smaller amounts in females. Several conditions can lead to elevated androgen levels, including:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder affecting the ovaries, although 70% to 80% of all people with PCOS develop hirsutism, a Cleveland Clinic study revealed.
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): A genetic condition affecting adrenal gland function.
- Medications: Certain drugs, including anabolic steroids and some contraceptives, can trigger hirsutism.
- Idiopathic Hirsutism: In some cases, no identifiable cause is found, and the condition is considered idiopathic.
- Cushing’s Syndrome: Long-term exposure to high cortisol levels can lead to excessive hair growth.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Hirsutism is often accompanied by other signs of hyperandrogenism, such as acne, irregular menstrual cycles, deepening of the voice, and thinning of scalp hair.
Diagnosis typically involves a medical history review, physical examination, and blood tests to assess hormone levels. In some cases, imaging studies like ultrasounds or CT scans are conducted to check for abnormalities in the ovaries or adrenal glands.
Treatment Options: Managing hirsutism involves addressing the underlying cause and reducing hair growth. Common treatment approaches include:
Medications: Anti-androgens like spironolactone or oral contraceptives help balance hormones.
Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss in cases of PCOS can improve symptoms.
Kolla_bharathi, an X user, twitted, “A 22-year-old girl came to me with a history of irregular cycles, hirsutism, and pcos 7 months ago; her weight was 83 kg at that time.
Now, after 7 months, she’s 65 kg. And cycles regularised hirsutism decreased. Was on LSM along with fewer medications. LIFESTYLE PLAYS A MAJOR ROLE; WATCH OUT WHAT YOU EAT!.”
Hair Removal Techniques: Methods like shaving, waxing, laser hair removal, or electrolysis can reduce visible hair.
Surgical Intervention: Rarely, surgery may be necessary for hormone-secreting tumours.
Coping and Support
Hirsutism can impact self-esteem and mental health, making emotional support essential. Women experiencing this condition should seek guidance from healthcare professionals for personalised care. Early intervention can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.
