Get to know hirsutism, the cause of growing mustaches in women

Definition

What is hirsutism?

Hirsutism is excess hair growth in women in areas that normally grow hair in men, such as the upper lip, chin, sideburns, chest, and back. The thickness of the hair that grows in women is largely determined by genetic factors.

Hirsutism is a condition that can be treated with a combination of self-care and medical therapy.

How common is hirsutism?

Hirsutism occurs in 5-10 percent of women, and is usually not a serious condition. Most women don't need medical care. Therapy can reverse hirsutism, but it may take months for it to heal. Hirsutism is a condition that cannot be prevented.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of hirsutism?

Hirsutism is thick, dark hair growth. Usually this hair appears in areas that normally grow hair in men, especially above the lips, sideburns, upper back, neck, chest, thighs, abdomen and around the nipples. Androgen levels that are too high can also cause other signs and symptoms that can appear over time.

Some of the other typical signs and symptoms associated with hirsutism are:

Excessive sweat production
Acne
Irregular menstruation or no menstruation at all
Small breast size

In serious cases, symptoms of hirsutism can also include rapid hair growth, baldness, a deepening voice, muscle development, changes in sexual desire, or fertility problems.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have signs or symptoms above or other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes hirsutism?

There are three main causes of hirsutism, including:

Genetic. Hirsutism is a disease that can arise due to hereditary factors. If your mother or sister has this condition, you will likely have it too.
Hormone. In many cases, hirsutism is caused due to high levels of male hormones (called androgens). Women usually make small amounts of androgens in the ovaries and adrenal glands. Well, problems in these organs can cause too much hormone to be made. This condition often occurs in women who have a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing's syndrome, and tumors in the adrenal glands.
Drug. The use of certain medications can change the hormone levels in your body, which can lead to excessive hair growth. Some of the drugs that can trigger this condition include steroids, phenytoin, diazoxide, cyclosporine, and minoxidil.

Some women have idiopathic hirsutism of unknown cause.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for hirsutism?

Certain factors that increase your risk of developing hirsutism include:

Family history. Some conditions that cause hirsutism such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovary syndrome can run in families
Certain diseases. Certain diseases that can cause hirsutism are congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovary syndrome
Ethnicity. Women who come from Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian ethnicities are more prone to experiencing hirsutism without cause than other women.
Obesity. Being overweight can lead to increased androgen production, which can trigger hirsutism.

Having no risk factors does not mean you can't get this disease. These factors are for reference only. You should consult your doctor for more details.

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are the treatment options for hirsutism?

Treatment depends on the cause. Treatment may not be necessary for mild cases without menstrual problems.

To remove unwanted hair can use drugs, makeup, shaving, bleaching, waxing, using creams (depilatories), and electrolysis or laser light (for permanent removal)

For hirsutism related to menstrual problems, your doctor may prescribe a medication containing female hormones. Other treatments may be needed for women who are pregnant.

Growths on the ovaries or adrenal glands can be removed surgically.

What are the usual tests for hirsutism?

Doctors will begin to measure androgen levels with tests called testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS). If necessary, the doctor will also perform a CT scan or MRI to examine the organ that is causing it.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat hirsutism?

Some of the lifestyle changes and home remedies that can help you deal with hirsutism are

Regular consultations with the doctor to monitor the progress of the healing process and your health condition
Call your doctor if your treatment has been successful but unwanted hair grows back
Lose weight if you are overweight. Weight loss reduces the risk of hirsutism
Do not use drugs containing male hormones unless given by a doctor
Don't expect hirsutism to go away soon. Successful drug therapy takes 3 to 6 months

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.