Excessive Hair Growth (Hirsutism)
Excessive hair growth (hirsutism or hypertrichosis) is the development of more hair than expected for age, sex, or body area. It may be linked to hormonal imbalance, PCOS, certain medications, or genetic factors.
🚨 Seek Urgent Medical Care
Get immediate help if excessive hair growth occurs with:
- Sudden rapid onset of hair growth.
- Deepening of voice or severe acne.
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
- Unexplained weight changes.
- Signs of virilization in females.
📞 Consult a Doctor
Seek medical advice if:
- Hair growth is increasing over time.
- Cosmetic concerns affect mental health.
- Menstrual irregularities are present.
- Family history of hormonal disorders exists.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Facial hair in females | PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) |
| Excess body hair | Hypertrichosis |
| Acne with hair growth | Androgen excess |
| Irregular periods | Hormonal imbalance |
| Hair growth in male pattern | Increased androgen levels |
Causes by Category
PCOS: Common cause of androgen excess in females.
Adrenal disorders: Overproduction of male hormones.
Thyroid imbalance: Can alter hair growth patterns.
Familial traits: Inherited increased hair growth patterns.
Ethnic variation: Natural differences in hair density.
Medications: Steroids, minoxidil, and certain drugs.
Endocrine tumors: Rare but serious cause of androgen excess.
Idiopathic: No identifiable cause in some cases.
Diagnostic Procedures
Hormone Tests
Measure androgen and endocrine levels.
Pelvic Ultrasound
Checks for ovarian abnormalities (e.g., PCOS).
Adrenal Function Tests
Evaluates adrenal gland hormone production.
Blood Tests
Checks metabolic and hormonal health.
