Excessive Hair Growth In Women - Hirsutism Treatment And Causes

Hirsutism is caused by the body producing too much of the hormones androgen and testosterone, which stimulate hair growth. In some cases, hirsutism may be caused by conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which causes an increase in the production of androgens. Other causes of hirsutism include Cushing's syndrome, tumors, birth control pill use, and certain medications.

By InstaCare

Feb 19 2023

Hair Care

Picture of Excessive Hair Growth In Women - Hirsutism Treatment And Causes

If you're a woman struggling with the condition of hirsutism - excessive body growth of hair in the wrong places that can be embarrassing and cause low self-esteem – you know how difficult it can be to find helpful information about its causes and treatment options. Fortunately, this blog post aims to give you all the insights needed on this topic so you can better understand and manage your situation. From common descriptions of hirsutism, possible causes like certain health conditions or medication side effects, as well as available treatments for male pattern hair growth such as laser therapy or other medical procedures, we’ll cover everything here so keep reading!

What is hirsutism?

Hirsutism is a condition that causes excessive hairiness in areas of the body where it normally wouldn't appear, such as around the chest, upper lip, and back. It most commonly occurs in women due to an excess of testosterone, but can also be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome or cushing’s syndrome.

The increased growth of hair, which is usually darker and thicker than normal body hair, can be emotionally distressing for many women who are effected by hirsutism. Treatments include hormone therapy, laser hair removal and medications to reduce the amount of male hormones in the body. Ultimately, discovering the underlying cause of hirsutism is essential for finding the best treatment plan.

What are the symptoms of hirsutism?

Hirsutism is a condition that causes excessive, abnormal growth of dark and coarse hair on women’s faces and bodies. Symptoms may include the development of coarse hairs on the face, back, chest, abdomen and arms. Women with hirsutism are likely to have upward-growing facial hair that follows the line of their cheekbones, as well as sideburns or a mustache.

Other signs include hairiness below the navel or along the crease between the thigh and torso. Some women also experience acne or extra body weight as symptoms of hirsutism. While such physical changes can be distressing and unwelcome to some, there are several treatments available to reduce unwanted hair growth.

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What are the causes of hirsutism in women?

Hirsutism is a fairly common condition in women that leads to excess unwanted hair growth on the face and body. While occasional hirsutism is usually normal, excessive and recurring hirsutism may be caused by certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (pcos), hormonal imbalances, or as a side effect of steroid medications.

Additionally, women may also experience hirsutism due to genetics—which means if your mother or father had it, there’s a higher likelihood that you will have it too. Whether you have a mild or severe case of hirsutism, consulting with an endocrinologist can help you assess the underlying causes, diagnose it correctly and find out what type of treatment may best suit your needs.

How is it diagnosed?

Hirsutism is typically diagnosed through a physical examination of the affected areas. During the exam, a doctor will look for signs of increased androgen production such as male-pattern hair growth on the chin and chest. Blood tests are often used to measure hormone levels, including testosterone and dheas (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), which may indicate abnormal excess of hormones in the body.

Other possible tests include ultrasound examinations to detect ovarian cysts or genetic testing to identify certain gene variants that predispose women to hirsutism. Ultimately, diagnosing hirsutism is based on assessing past medical history, physical exams, lab results, and possibly additional imaging tests.

What are the available treatments for hirsutism, and which one is right for you?

Hirsutism, a condition that causes excessive hair growth on the face and body, can be caused by an array of medical and hormonal factors. Fortunately, there are several treatments available for this condition. Treatment options typically depend on the underlying cause of hirsutism, which should be identified through further examination by a healthcare provider.

Some of the most common treatments include prescription medications like birth control pills to reduce male hormones in women, or spironolactone to suppress the production of certain male hormones in the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Other therapies available are laser or electrolysis hair removal, waxing or threading, or topical creams like vaniqa. When choosing the right treatment for you, it's important to consider your budget and lifestyle, as well as how much time you're willing to spend caring for your skin. Ultimately, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional about which treatment may work best for you.

How can you prevent hirsutism from developing in the first place?

Hirsutism is a condition that can cause increased hair growth in places where it is not usually seen on women and can often be a source of distress. Fortunately, there are some simple measures you can take to prevent hirsutism from developing in the first place. These include avoiding certain diets that lead to higher levels of testosterone production, such as those high in dairy and refined carbohydrates.

Additionally, regular exercise and reducing stress levels have been proven effective in reducing hirsutism-causing hormone levels. Finally, consulting with your doctor may help develop an individualised treatment plan to balance hormones. Taking these steps can help ensure that hormonal fluctuations don't lead to more unwanted hair growth.

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Conclusion

Although the means to an end may vary, the goal is always to bring hormone levels back into balance. If you are struggling with hirsutism and would like help finding a treatment plan that works for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of medical professionals. We will work with you to find a solution that restores your confidence and gets rid of unwanted hair growth for good.

Please book an appointment with the Best Doctors For Hair Fall Treatment in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03100002273 to find a verified doctor for your disease.

Source: https://instacare.pk/blog/excessive-hair-growth

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cause of hirsutism in females?

Hirsutism in females is a condition characterized by excessive hair growth in areas of the body where hair is normally minimal or absent, such as the face, chest, and back. The condition is caused by an excess of androgen hormones, which are typically male hormones but are also present in females in smaller amounts. The most common cause of hirsutism in females is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age. PCOS can cause enlarged ovaries with multiple cysts and irregular periods. Other causes of hirsutism can include congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a group of genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands; Cushing's syndrome, which is caused by an excess of the hormone cortisol; and certain medications, such as anabolic steroids and testosterone. It is important to see a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hirsutism, as they can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. Treatment may include medications to regulate hormone levels or procedures such as electrolysis or laser hair removal.

How do you treat hirsutism in women?

The treatment of hirsutism in women depends on the underlying cause of the condition. The following are some common treatments that may be used: Hormonal therapy: If the cause of hirsutism is due to an excess of androgen hormones, hormonal therapy may be used to regulate hormone levels. This can involve the use of birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone, or medications that block the effects of androgens such as spironolactone or finasteride. Topical treatments: Prescription creams or lotions containing eflornithine can be applied directly to the skin to slow down the growth of unwanted facial hair. Hair removal treatments: Procedures such as electrolysis, laser hair removal, and intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) can be used to remove unwanted hair. These treatments work by targeting the hair follicles with heat or light, which destroys them and prevents future hair growth. Surgery: If the hirsutism is caused by a tumor or other structural abnormality, surgery may be necessary to remove the underlying cause. Lifestyle changes: For some women, making lifestyle changes such as losing weight, reducing stress, and increasing exercise can help regulate hormone levels and reduce the symptoms of hirsutism. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of hirsutism and the most appropriate treatment plan.

Is there a permanent cure for hirsutism?

The cure for hirsutism depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, such as hirsutism caused by medication use, the condition may be reversible once the medication is discontinued. However, for many women, hirsutism is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Hirsutism caused by hormonal imbalances, such as PCOS, can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes, but there is no permanent cure for these conditions. Women may need to continue with treatment indefinitely to manage symptoms. Hair removal treatments such as electrolysis and laser hair removal can provide long-lasting or permanent hair reduction, but may not completely eliminate hair growth in all cases. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary to achieve desired results. In summary, while there may not be a permanent cure for hirsutism, appropriate management and treatment can help reduce the symptoms and improve quality of life for women with the condition.

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