Hirsutism / Excessive Hair Growth
Women who have hirsutism experience excessive hair development in places on their bodies where it is unusual to see hair, such as the face, chest, and back. The primary cause of this excessive hair growth is typically an increase in androgen (male hormone) production, which can be brought on by a number of conditions, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), tumors, drugs, or other hormonal imbalances.
Both the excess hair growth and the underlying hormonal imbalance must be treated in order to successfully treat hirsutism. Treatment choices could be:
- Hormonal therapy: To assist in reducing androgen production and stop further hair growth, birth control pills or other drugs that regulate hormone levels may be administered.
- Anti-androgen medications: To assist in reducing hair growth, doctors may prescribe prescription-strength drugs that block the effects of androgens on hair follicles.
- Topical medications: Eflornithine cream may be used to afflicted regions to inhibit hair growth.
- Laser hair removal: Long-lasting hair reduction can be achieved by targeting and destroying hair follicles with a specialized laser.
- Electrolysis: Permanent hair removal is achieved by using an electrical current to kill hair follicles.
The precise course of treatment for hirsutism should be decided in conjunction with a dermatologist or healthcare professional and will depend on the underlying cause and specific needs of the patient. To help manage symptoms and lower the risk of complications related to hirsutism, lifestyle adjustments like weight loss, exercise, and stress reduction may also be suggested in addition to medical treatment.