Best hirsutism Doctors in Lucknow

Hirsutism is a medical condition experienced predominantly by women, characterised by the excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in a male-like pattern. It commonly manifests in areas like the face, chest, and back. This condition is primarily driven by an overproduction of androgens (male hormones), particularly testosterone, which in turn leads to an increase in terminal hair growth. Key causes linked to hirsutism include Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, and a range of other factors like obesity, thyroid disorders, Cushing's syndrome, and certain medications.

In Lucknow, hirsutism is a fairly common condition. Apollo Hospitals' hirsutism treatment doctors in Lucknow advise that predispositions to this condition can stem from genetic factors, medical conditions, environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle, and even certain medications. With increasing awareness and access to healthcare services, more women are seeking help from doctors for excessive hair growth.

Types/Stages of Hirsutism

Hirsutism affects the individual hair follicles' growth cycle divided into three key stages:

• Mild Hirsutism: Slightly increased hair growth, noticeable but not very dense or thick.

• Moderate Hirsutism: More noticeable and widespread hair growth, requiring cosmetic treatment.

• Severe Hirsutism: Extensive hair growth resembling male patterns, significantly affecting appearance and potentially causing psychological distress.

Symptoms of Hirsutism

Typically, hirsutism presents itself in a variety of ways. Common symptoms include:

• Dark or coarse hair growth usually in male-like patterns on the face, chest, back, lower abdomen, upper arms, or lower legs.

• Development of secondary sex characteristics typical of men, such as deeper voice, balding, acne, decrease in breast size, increase in muscle mass, and enlargement of the clitoris.

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles are often associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Tests to Diagnose Hirsutism

Doctors for unusual hair growth at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow involve a combination of the following tests to provide a diagnosis:

• Medical History: Questions about the onset and progression rate of symptoms, menstrual history, usage of medication and family history of hirsutism.

• Physical Examination: Assessment for signs of hyperandrogenism including acne, oily skin and masculine voice.

• Laboratory Tests: These may involve total testosterone levels test for detecting androgen excess and a sensitive free testosterone test often elevated in PCOS cases. An elaborate androgen profile is also drawn up to identify the underlying cause.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Hirsutism at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow

At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, hirsutism treatment doctors offer a range of treatment options for hirsutism depending on its severity and cause:

• Self-Care Methods: Regular shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams for mild hirsutism.

• Topical Treatments: Use of creams or gels like eflornithine, finasteride or spironolactone for mild to moderate hirsutism.

• Oral Medications: Anti-androgens like spironolactone, flutamide or finasteride for moderate to severe hirsutism.

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Pills that regulate hormones and reduce androgen levels.

• Surgical Options: In rare cases, surgical removal of excess hair or treatment of underlying hormonal imbalances might be necessary.