Often, the skin could be a window to what's happening inside your body. For women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, this will mean pimples, hair loss, excess facial or body hair, dark spots on the skin, or any combination of those problems.
What is PCOS?
Skin and hair problems would be the most easily noticed features of PCOS, and thus are sometimes the explanation for in search of medical care. However, symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, polycystic ovaries (when the ovaries develop multiple small follicles and don't release eggs usually), obesity, and insulin resistance (when the cells don't produce insulin). (don't respond well to) are also included.
The reason behind PCOS shouldn't be fully understood, nevertheless Scientific evidence Refers to hormonal imbalances, particularly excess testosterone (also referred to as hyperandrogenism) and insulin resistance. PCOS is probably the most common reason behind infertility in women. Hormonal imbalance in PCOS disrupts ovulation and pregnancy shouldn't be possible without ovulation. PCOS exists on a spectrum, meaning that not every woman with PCOS has the identical signs and symptoms. Because of the differences within the characteristics of this syndrome, it could possibly be difficult to diagnose.
How do I do know if I even have PCOS?
Is No specific test That will be used to diagnose PCOS requires a thoughtful and thorough workup, including lab tests and imaging. Lab tests often involve measuring levels of assorted hormones, reminiscent of androgens. Imaging tests may include an ultrasound of the ovaries. Care in search of from an experienced team, including primary care physicians, gynecologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists, can establish the diagnosis.
What are the skin symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS-related pimples often flares up on the lower face, including the jawline, chin, and upper neck. Although not a tough and fast rule, these areas are considered hormonal patterns for pimples. Women with PCOS may find that pimples scars are deeper, larger, and slower to resolve. Acne in PCOS often gets worse across the time of menstruation. Dermatologists often recommend the usage of contraception pills or spironolactone to treat this sort of pimples. These remedies, when utilized in the fitting patients with no contraindications, will be very helpful in clearing pimples.
Hirsutism, or excessive hair growth in areas where hair is generally absent or sparse, is one other dermatologic symptom of PCOS. Common areas of hirsutism include the chin, neck, abdomen, chest or back. However, baldness or thinning of hair on the scalp could also be seen. Both of those hair problems are brought on by excess testosterone.
Occasionally, one other skin condition called acanthosis nigricans appears, that are dark, velvety patches of skin, often in skin creases reminiscent of across the neck and within the arms. This kind of skin condition can also be related to insulin resistance, and will be brought on by insulin stimulating skin cells, causing them to grow more.
Treatment options and an appropriate approach
Although there isn't a cure for PCOS, there are various treatment options to administer the assorted symptoms of this syndrome. The kinds of treatment used depend upon the girl's preferences and symptoms. For example, being at a healthy weight can improve symptoms, so lifestyle changes in nutrition and exercise may help. Hirsutism will be treated with laser hair removal or electrolysis. Some patients may try contraception pills to enhance menstrual regularity. Metformin, a commonly used diabetes medication, will be used to assist improve the body's response to insulin.
Treatment plans are individualized and depend upon whether pregnancy is a short-term goal. Certain medications, including spironolactone and retinoids for pimples, must be avoided if a girl is attempting to conceive.