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Body Hair
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Excessive growth of dark, coarse body hair occurs in women due to enlarged
hair follicles and increased pigmentation of hair. This condition
is called hirsutism and
the hair distribution typically occurs in a pattern normally
seen in adult males.
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- Idiopathic or no definitive cause
- Genetic abnormalities
- Hereditary or familial
- Racial
- Endocrine system abnormalities such as polycystic ovary, Cushing's
syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia or precocious puberty.
- Medications such as minoxidil, androgenic steroids, testosterone, aminoglutethimide,
cyclosporine, drugs containing progestins, glucocorticoids and metoclopramide.
- Old age.
- Menopause
- Puberty
- Pregnancy
- Adrenocortical carcinoma
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Heredity and hormonal
levels play a vital role in hair growth. Hair growth can be stimulated by
some drugs like corticosteroids, temporary methods of hair removal and some
illnesses.
Usually, growth of scalp hair is quite welcome and desirable especially in
women. However, when there is excessive growth of hair on different parts
of your entire body, this can be embarrassing and can make
you self
conscious.
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- If excessive growth of hair on the body is due to elevated androgen levels,
it may be treated with low dose dexamethasone, oral contraceptives, or anti-androgen
medications.
- Cosmetic treatments or methods for eliminating excess hair such as bleaching,
tweezing, hot wax treatments, chemical depilatories, shaving, electrolysis
or laser hair removal are readily available.
- Consult your physician about estrogen replacement therapy if you can attribute
menopause for excessive hair growth.
- For ovarian cysts or tumors, consult your physician about removal of the
cysts or tumors.
- Consult your physician about switching or discontinuing medications if
they seem to be the problem.
- Treatment of the underlying disease condition may resolve the excessive
hair growth.
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Acne
