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Welcome to irishhealth.com (19 Jun, 2013) Quickfind
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Women's excess hair may indicate medical problem

[Posted: Fri 17/04/2009 by Olivia Fens www.irishhealth.com]

Excess hair growth is more than just an embarrassing problem and could indicate an underlying medical problem, say scientists.

Excess hair growth, known as hirsutism, is a distressing condition that affects 5-15% of women.

According to a new study, up to 80% of women with hirsutism have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, other possible causes can include tumours and thyroid dysfunction. In some cases, the use of certain drugs can lead to excess hair growth.

The study found that depending on the cause, there are a number of ways to manage this condition – weight loss and hormonal therapy, such as the oral contraceptive pill, have both been shown to reduce excess hair growth.

“Hirsutism can be particularly difficult for young women. Women with concerns about excess hair growth should speak to their doctor in order to screen for any medical problems and to learn about management strategies,” said Jason Waugh, acting editor-in-chief of the journal Obstetrician & Gynaecologist where the study was published.

For more information on PCOS, click on...http://www.irishhealth.com/index.html?level=4&id=2210

 

  galo  Posted: 28/10/2009 21:04

I am, perhaps, the exception to the rule in this case...

I went for all the screening and came back as "normal" for all of those mentioned above, and then some, I lost significant weight (was actually told I had lost too much...), and yet I continued to be the official "bearded lady".  I have the hairy nipples, legs ass, face, lower stomach and now it is even starting elsewhere.  I have begun laser hair removal for my face and I have to say it has made an enormous difference to my confidence.  I have had it since the darling age of 14-15 and can no longer remember not having it - but the end is in sight for me at the ripe age of 29, for my face at least!  Costs a small fortune and very painful, but so worth it.  Great offers on thanks to the recession at the moment so am considering other parts of my anatomy now!  I used to feel so isolated and permanently looked down in public (am tall so people permanently looking at my chin and neck) but have my head held so high these days that people can't even look me in the eye!

Have given up on medical solutions - cosmetic stuff was only solution for me.

Huggs to anyone else out there suffering.  People think that just because it's merely a skin affliction of some sort and not affecting your overall health or life threatening or anything you shouldn't bother about it.  RUBBISH!  I had been so depressed for so many years and bullied out of my mind, excluded from social functions etc - how good was that for my health?  Well sod the lot of those tiny minded little people!  I have a better social life than Paris Hilton or Jordan nowadays! 

So best of luck ladies, let me know if ye want some moral support...

 
  Sarah Jane  Posted: 22/12/2009 23:54

I have hair growth on my chin and it can be very strong hairs at times. I had tests done to see had i a fibroid and a lump but i didn't. It's very embarassing the hairs as they are quite noticeable but i haven't used laser yet. I am considering it or other effective treatments. I think its best to find a suitable treatment on your own and a treatment which suits you rather than asking your doc.

 
 
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