$Unique_ID{BRK01056}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Is There Any Treatment for Excessive Hair Growth in Women?}
$Subject{hair excess facial hirsutism}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There Any Treatment for Excessive Hair Growth in Women?


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QUESTION:  Can you explain the reasons why a woman would have lots of hair
growing on her face and body?  Is there any treatment available for this
condition?  I am desperate for some information I can trust.

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ANSWER:  Some amount of hair growth in women is common, and should neither
cause you concern nor make you seek treatment.  A significant increase of
growth, or an excessive amount of hair, known as hirsutism, is not common, and
depending on other factors, may indicate the need for further investigation.
     Treatment will depend upon the location of the hair, how much is present,
and what type of hair there is.  There are nine areas of the body where women
can look for excessive hair growth.  These areas are the upper lip, the chin,
the upper and lower abdomen, the upper and lower back, the upper arms, the
chest and the thighs.  It is normal for women to have some hair growth in
these areas, but if the hair is excessive, and if it is dark and thick, it may
indicate a condition known as hyperandrogenemia.
     Hyperandrogenemia may be due to problems in either the ovaries, or the
adrenal glands, or both.  It is characterized by an increased production and
secretion of testosterones, normally male hormones, but produced by these
glands in women as well.  In some women, the ovaries and adrenal glands
secrete these hormones in a more potent form, causing excessive hair growth.
Other symptoms may include acne, obesity, infertility, and a lighter than
normal menstruation.
     In rare cases, excessive hair may be due to a tumor in the ovaries or
adrenal glands.
     There are two effective ways to treat hirsutism.  One method uses
electrolysis therapy, and the other turns to medications.  In most cases a
combination of both methods produces the best results.
     Electrolysis therapy is a safe and effective and ultimately permanent way
of removing excessive hair.  Depilatory techniques such as waxing are
effective, but not permanent.  Birth control pills and corticosteroids can be
used to counteract the excess androgens produced by the ovaries, and low dose
glucocorticoids can suppress the output of hormone from the adrenal glands.
These treatments may have serious side effects and must be carefully discussed
with your physician, to gain a complete understanding.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
