Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects egg production in the ovaries, leading to the development of multiple cysts. Symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, infertility, excessive body hair growth, high blood pressure, and liver problems. Treatment options include medications, lifestyle changes, and surgical procedures.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common condition among women between the ages of 15 and 40. It occurs when hormonal imbalances, high insulin levels, or other problems affect egg production in the ovaries and lead to the development of multiple cysts or abscesses in the organs. Symptoms can vary widely among different women, but the most common symptoms of PCOS are irregular periods, weight gain, and infertility. Depending on the underlying causes, a woman may also experience excessive body hair growth, high blood pressure, and liver problems. Most patients are able to manage PCOS symptoms by taking medications and making smart lifestyle choices.
Menstrual period abnormalities are usually the easiest symptoms of PCOS to identify. Many women with the condition have longer-than-average menstrual cycles, ranging from 35 to 40 days between periods. Some patients have only a few periods a year, and some stop menstruating altogether for months or years at a time. When periods do occur, they can be very light or very heavy. Because egg production is impaired, many women remain infertile.
Women who have polycystic ovary syndrome typically have elevated levels of androgens and other male hormones. As a result, a woman may experience unusual and rapid hair growth patterns on her face and body. Also, male pattern baldness and a decrease in breast size are symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome in some patients. Some women experience significant weight gain and persistent, severe acne on the face and chest.
Other symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome can include sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels. Such symptoms are generally considered complications of weight gain and obesity related to the underlying disorder. Cholesterol and blood pressure problems can potentially lead to coronary heart disease, heart attack or stroke regardless of the patient’s age.
A woman experiencing symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome should consult her doctor to learn about different treatment options. A specialist can evaluate your physical symptoms and do blood and urine tests to check for hormonal imbalances. Imaging tests are used to examine the ovaries.
Medical care is geared towards relieving specific symptoms. Acne medications and hair removal creams are often prescribed to improve a woman’s physical appearance, and birth control pills can help regulate periods. Hormone therapy, a specialized diet, and regular exercise are important for weight control and reducing the risk of heart problems. Infertility is not always curable, but a patient may choose to have a surgical procedure to remove the cysts and improve her chances of getting pregnant.
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