Excess male hormones, known as androgens, can cause hirsutism. This can happen as a result of certain medical issues. Inheritance of hirsutism is possible. Hirsutism causes an overabundance of stiff, pigmented hair in parts of the body where males normally grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back. Medication helps to treat hirsutism. Electrolysis or laser therapy can also help to eliminate hair.
In women with PCOS, the prevalence of hirsutism ranges from 70 to 80 percent, compared to 4 percent to 11 percent in the general population. Link of hirsutism to ovarian androgen excess as well as individual pilosebaceous unit sensitivity to androgens in PCOS. The control of androgen excess with combination oral contraceptives is one strategy for reducing hirsutism in PCOS (OCPs).
What causes hair growth on the face?
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a type of polycystic ova (PCOS). An imbalance of sex hormones occurs as a result of this illness, which generally develops during puberty. PCOS can cause excessive hair growth, irregular periods, obesity, infertility, and numerous cysts on the ovaries over time. Pcos facial hair is common due to hormonal imbalance. • Cushing’s syndrome is a condition in the adrenal glands When your body is exposed to excessive levels of the hormone cortisol, this happens. It can result from your adrenal glands producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of drugs like prednisone. • Adrenal hyperplasia is a condition that occurs at birth. The adrenal glands produce abnormal amounts of steroid hormones, such as cortisol and androgen, in this hereditary disorder. • Tumors. The cause of hirsutism can be an androgen-secreting tumor in the ovaries or adrenal glands. • Medications. Hirsutism can be caused by some drugs. These include minoxidil (Rogaine, Rogaine), danazol (for endometriosis), testosterone (Androgel, Testim), and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) (DHEA).
PCOS and hirsutism interconnection
When male hormones in the female body exceed their normal level of secretion, hirsutism is visible. High levels of androgen are a common symptom of PCOS. Similarly, high levels of androgen cause facial hair growth in the female body.
Excessive facial and body hair is usually due to a buildup of androgens in the body. Men and women both have androgens, but men have significantly larger levels of physiologically active androgens. Production of androgens is predominantly by the testes and adrenal glands in men. Androgens are produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. Estrogen lowers the action of androgens in women to some extent.
Diagnosis of hirsutism in women
Training to Reproductive and medical endocrinologists to treat hirsutism and related disorders. Some gynecologists, dermatologists, and general practitioners have also gained the required knowledge. During your first medical visit, your doctor will try to distinguish between terminal hairs developing in a masculine pattern, which indicates hirsutism, and hair growth caused by genetic or ethnic predisposition.
If you’ve been diagnosed with hirsutism, your doctor may order blood tests, ultrasounds, special x-rays, and hormone tests to assess how well your ovaries and adrenal glands are working. Your physician might offer appropriate treatment after determining the causes of hirsutism. Various cosmetic treatments, including laser and electrolysis, can be used to eliminate any undesirable hair that remains following treatment.
Photo Credit: Health Express
How to treat hirsutism?
Because hair grows in six-month cycles, hirsutism is usually a long-term condition. Unwanted hair can be treated in a variety of ways, some of which are more effective than others.
Birth control pills and anti-androgen meds like Aldactone are examples of medications (spironolactone)
Swelling, scarring, and skin redness are all possible side effects of electrolysis.
Hair removal with lasers (this method works best on fair-skinned people with very dark hair)
Chemical shaving, plucking, and waxing
Weight loss may aid in the reduction of unwanted hair growth in overweight or obese women.
FAQs
1. How to stop facial hair growth due to hirsutism naturally?
Following these given this one can get rid of hirsutism naturally.
• Consume antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, cherries, and tomatoes (such as squash and bell peppers).
• Avoid refined foods, such as white pieces of bread, kinds of pasta, and sugar.
• For protein, consume less red meats and more lean meats, cold-water fish, tofu (soy, if you don’t have a soy allergy), or beans.
• Use healthy oils like olive oil or vegetable oil in your cooking.
• Elimination of trans fat is present in commercially bakery items such as cookies, crackers, cakes, French fries, onion rings, doughnuts, processed foods, and some portions of margarine.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
• Recommendation of 6 to 8 glasses of filtered water each day.
2. Can hirsutism be cured permanently?
Yes, Hirsutism can be successfully treated if you stick to your doctor’s treatment regimen. Use of oral drugs in combination with topical treatments, laser or electrolytic techniques to permanently reduce or remove unwanted hair from a woman’s body.
3. What is PCOS facial hair?
The association of polycystic ovarian syndrome is with hirsutism and undesirable PCOS facial hair. Characteristics of hirsutism are coarse, black hair on the face, chest, belly, back, upper arms, and upper legs. Hirsutism is a sign of medical conditions that link to androgen hormones.
4. Does PCOs cause facial hair?
Even if fertility isn’t an issue, some of the other PCOS symptoms may be. Unwanted facial hair growth is one of the PCOS side effects that many women are unaware of, causing self-esteem concerns and maybe despair.
5. How much facial hair is normal for a woman?
A total score of less than eight is normal, a score of eight to fifteen suggests mild hirsutism, and a score of more than fifteen indicates moderate or severe hirsutism. Most women with facial hair don’t use the Ferriman-Gallwey scale to determine whether or not they have a problem.
Hirsutism is a common condition that may typically be successfully manageable by medicines. Electrolysis or laser treatment can help to permanently decrease or eradicate any remaining undesirable hair after medical treatment. If other female members of your family have had excessive hair growth, keep an eye out for early signs of hirsutism in yourself and your children, particularly throughout adolescence. Hirsutism is a common side effect of PCOS. Identification of hirsutism and PCOS at an early age makes it easier to treat.
About the author
Charlotte
Charlotte is a health, beauty and wellness blogger and a mother of two, who lives between India and London
Does Masturbation Cause Dehydration? Separating Fact from Fiction
Masturbation is a natural and healthy activity that many individuals engage in for various reasons, including pleasure, stress relief, and sexual exploration.
Masturbation is a natural and healthy activity that many individuals engage in for various reasons, including pleasure, stress relief, and sexual exploration.
However, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding masturbation, one of which is the idea that it can lead to dehydration. In this article, we delve into the question of whether masturbation causes dehydration and provide insights into the science behind this topic.
Debunking the Myth: Masturbation and Dehydration
The notion that masturbation causes dehydration might stem from the idea that bodily fluids are lost during the process, leading to an overall decrease in hydration levels.
However, this belief is not accurate. Masturbation does involve the release of bodily fluids, but the amount is generally minimal and unlikely to cause significant dehydration.
The human body is designed to maintain a balance of fluids, including water, through various physiological mechanisms.
While there is fluid loss during ejaculation or orgasm, it’s important to understand that this loss is relatively small compared to the overall fluid volume in the body.
Therefore, the idea that masturbation can directly lead to dehydration is not supported by scientific evidence.
Q&A: Addressing Common Concerns
1. Does masturbation cause a significant loss of fluids?
Ans. No, the amount of fluid released during masturbation is relatively small and is not enough to cause significant dehydration. The body is efficient in maintaining fluid balance, and any fluid loss is usually replenished through drinking water and other fluids.
2. Can masturbation lead to dehydration in certain situations?
Ans. In extremely rare cases, excessive masturbation, combined with inadequate fluid intake, could potentially contribute to a temporary state of dehydration. However, this scenario is highly unlikely and would require prolonged, extreme behavior.
3. Should individuals be concerned about hydration after masturbation?
Numerous peculiar assertions circulate about masturbation, such as masturbation’s impact on kidney and its potential to cause back pain. Generally, there’s little reason to be alarmed about dehydration following masturbation. Emphasizing comprehensive hydration by consuming water and fluids consistently throughout the day remains essential.
4. How can individuals ensure proper hydration?
Ans. Maintaining proper hydration involves drinking an adequate amount of water and fluids daily, regardless of whether one engages in masturbation. Pay attention to your body’s signals, such as thirst, and consume fluids accordingly.
5. Are there any potential benefits to staying hydrated during sexual activities?
Ans. Staying hydrated is important for overall health and well-being, including sexual health. Proper hydration can contribute to better circulation and bodily functions, which can indirectly enhance sexual experiences.
Understanding Fluid Balance and Hydration
The human body has a sophisticated system for regulating fluid balance, ensuring that essential functions are maintained.
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an imbalance.
Common causes of dehydration include insufficient fluid intake, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, and certain medical conditions.
It’s crucial to differentiate between normal, healthy fluid loss and situations that might contribute to dehydration. Masturbation, as a natural bodily function, falls into the former category. Fluid loss during sexual activities is a normal physiological process and does not usually pose a risk of dehydration.
Maintaining Sexual Wellness and Hydration
While masturbation itself does not directly cause dehydration, it’s important to prioritize overall sexual wellness and hydration. Staying hydrated supports overall bodily functions, including those related to sexual health. Here are a few tips to consider:
Stay Hydrated: Ensure you’re drinking an adequate amount of water and fluids throughout the day to maintain proper hydration levels.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you’re thirsty, drink water. Prioritize hydration as part of your daily routine.
Prioritize Sexual Health: If you have concerns about sexual health or are experiencing discomfort, consult a healthcare professional. Open communication with a medical expert can provide valuable insights and guidance.
Separate Fact from Fiction: Be cautious of myths and misconceptions surrounding sexual health. Seek information from reliable sources, such as medical professionals and reputable health organizations.
Final Words
In the realm of sexual health and well-being, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction. While myths surrounding masturbation and dehydration persist, scientific evidence indicates that masturbation itself does not cause significant dehydration. The body’s intricate systems for maintaining fluid balance ensure that the minor fluid loss during sexual activities is not a cause for concern.
Ultimately, staying hydrated is important for overall health and vitality. Rather than worrying about dehydration due to masturbation, individuals should focus on maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle, including proper hydration, regular exercise, and open communication about sexual health.
As with any health-related topic, it’s always advisable to consult medical professionals for personalized advice and guidance. By approaching sexual health and wellness with accurate information, individuals can make informed decisions that contribute to their overall well-being.
Sleep is a vital component of our overall well-being and plays a crucial role in maintaining physical and mental health. However, many individuals struggle with sleep-related issues, ranging from difficulty falling asleep to restless nights and frequent awakenings. The good news is that adopting proper sleep hygiene practices can greatly improve sleep quality and promote a restful night’s sleep. In this article, we will delve into the importance of maintaining good sleep hygiene habits and explore various strategies to enhance sleep quality.
Strategies To Enhance Sleep Quality:
1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine:
Creating a regular sleep schedule is essential for maintaining a healthy sleep pattern. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock and promotes better sleep. By sticking to a consistent routine, your body will become accustomed to a specific sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Ritual:
Engaging in relaxing activities before bed helps signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Consider establishing a soothing bedtime ritual that suits your preferences. This could include reading a book, taking a warm bath, practicing deep breathing exercises, listening to calming music, or engaging in gentle stretching or yoga. Find activities that help you relax and unwind, allowing your mind and body to transition into a more peaceful state before sleep.
3. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment:
Making your bedroom a sleep-friendly space is crucial for optimizing sleep quality. Start by ensuring the room is cool, dark, and quiet. Use blackout curtains or blinds to block out external light, and consider using earplugs or a white noise machine to drown out any disruptive sounds. Keep the temperature comfortable and well-ventilated, and remove electronic devices that emit light or noise. Creating a calm and peaceful environment promotes a more restful sleep experience.
4. Limit Exposure to Blue Light:
Minimizing exposure to blue light from electronic devices before bed is important for quality sleep. The blue light emitted by smartphones, tablets, and computers can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. To reduce the impact of blue light on your sleep, establish a cutoff time before bed when you disconnect from electronic devices. Consider using blue light filters or switching to warm-colored lighting in the evening. Engaging in screen-free activities and dimming the lights in your living space can help signal to your body that it’s time to prepare for sleep.
5. Manage Stress:
Stress and anxiety can significantly impact sleep quality. Developing effective stress-management techniques can help calm your mind and promote relaxation before bed. Explore activities such as meditation, mindfulness exercises, yoga, or journaling to help reduce stress levels. Practice deep breathing techniques or progressive muscle relaxation to release tension and prepare your mind and body for a restful sleep.
6. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment:
Investing in a comfortable mattress, pillows, and bedding that suit your preferences can greatly enhance your sleep quality. Your sleep environment should be conducive to relaxation and comfort. Choose a mattress that provides adequate support and is suitable for your sleeping position. Select pillows that provide proper neck and head support. Opt for breathable and soft bedding materials that promote a comfortable sleeping temperature. By creating a cozy and inviting sleep environment, you can maximize your chances of achieving a restful sleep.
7. Avoid Stimulants:
Consuming stimulants close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep. Avoid consuming substances like caffeine and nicotine in the hours leading up to sleep. These stimulants can keep you alert and make it difficult to fall asleep. Instead, opt for decaffeinated beverages or herbal teas that promote relaxation. Be mindful of hidden sources of caffeine, such as chocolate or certain medications. By reducing your intake of stimulants, you give your body a better chance to unwind and prepare for sleep.
8. Engage in Regular Exercise:
Regular physical activity during the day has numerous benefits, including improved sleep quality. Engaging in exercise helps reduce stress, release endorphins, and promote overall well-being. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. However, it’s important to avoid vigorous exercise too close to bedtime, as it can stimulate your body and make it harder to sleep.
9. Limit Daytime Napping:
If you struggle with nighttime sleep, it’s important to limit daytime napping or keep it to short power naps. While a short nap can provide a quick energy boost, long or late-afternoon naps can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle and make it harder to fall asleep at night. If you feel the need to nap, try to limit it to 20-30 minutes early in the day to avoid interfering with your nighttime sleep.
10. Evaluate Your Bedroom’s Comfort:
Take a closer look at your bedroom’s comfort factors to optimize your sleep environment. Ensure the room is well-ventilated and at a comfortable temperature. Adjust the lighting to create a soothing ambiance that promotes relaxation. Consider using comfortable and supportive pillows, blankets, and bedding materials that suit your preferences. By paying attention to these details, you can enhance the comfort of your sleep environment and improve your overall sleep quality.
11. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your bedtime routine can help calm your mind and prepare your body for sleep. Techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, or meditation can help reduce anxiety, quiet racing thoughts, and induce a state of relaxation. These practices promote a sense of tranquility and can be highly beneficial for improving sleep quality.
12. Limit Fluid Intake Before Bed:
To minimize disruptions to your sleep, reduce the amount of liquid you consume before bedtime. Excessive fluid intake close to bedtime can lead to more frequent bathroom trips during the night, disrupting your sleep. It’s advisable to avoid drinking large amounts of liquids, especially those with diuretic properties like caffeine or alcohol, in the evening hours. Instead, hydrate adequately throughout the day and gradually reduce your fluid intake as bedtime approaches.
13. Address Underlying Sleep Disorders:
If you consistently struggle with sleep issues despite implementing these strategies, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional. Certain individuals may have underlying sleep disorders that require specific treatment or intervention. Sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome can significantly impact sleep quality and warrant professional evaluation. A healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer appropriate treatment options to help you achieve better sleep.
Final Words
By implementing these strategies to enhance sleep quality, you can create a conducive sleep environment, establish healthy sleep habits, and promote overall well-being. Remember, achieving restful and rejuvenating sleep is a journey that may require patience and consistency. Experiment with different techniques, listen to your body’s cues, and make adjustments as needed to find the sleep routine that works best for you. Prioritizing quality sleep can have profound effects on your physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.
Hormonal Imbalances in Men: Testosterone Deficiency, Hypogonadism & Male Hormone Disorders
Learn about hormonal imbalances in men, including testosterone deficiency, hypogonadism, and other male hormone disorders. Discover causes, symptoms, and treatment options for better hormonal health.”
Hormonal imbalances in men can have significant impacts on overall health and well-being. Testosterone deficiency, hypogonadism, and other male hormone disorders can disrupt various physiological processes, affecting sexual function, mood, energy levels, muscle mass, and bone density. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for these conditions.
Hormonal Imbalances in Men:
Testosterone Deficiency: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male reproductive tissues, secondary sexual characteristics, and overall well-being. Testosterone deficiency, also known as low testosterone or hypogonadism, occurs when the body does not produce enough testosterone.
Causes:
Aging: Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, with a gradual decrease beginning in the late 20s or early 30s.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as pituitary gland disorders, testicular damage or injury, obesity, and chronic illnesses like diabetes, can contribute to testosterone deficiency.
Medications: Some medications, including opioids, corticosteroids, and certain chemotherapy drugs, can suppress testosterone production.
Symptoms:
Decreased libido and sexual dysfunction
Fatigue and decreased energy levels
Loss of muscle mass and strength
Increased body fat
Mood changes, such as depression or irritability
Reduced bone density
Diagnosis: Diagnosing testosterone deficiency involves a comprehensive assessment, including medical history, physical examination, and blood tests to measure testosterone levels. The diagnosis considers both the presence of symptoms and low testosterone levels.
Treatment: Treatment options for testosterone deficiency include:
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT): This involves the administration of testosterone through gels, injections, patches, or pellets to restore testosterone levels.
Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, weight management, and stress reduction, can help optimize testosterone levels.
Hypogonadism: Hypogonadism is a broader term that encompasses both primary and secondary hypogonadism. Primary hypogonadism occurs when the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone, while secondary hypogonadism is characterized by a dysfunction in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, leading to reduced testosterone production.
Causes:
Primary hypogonadism causes may include testicular injury, infection, genetic disorders (such as Klinefelter syndrome), or chemotherapy/radiation treatment.
Secondary hypogonadism causes may include pituitary gland or hypothalamus disorders, certain medications, obesity, or chronic illness.
Symptoms: Symptoms of hypogonadism can be similar to testosterone deficiency and may include:
Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction
Fatigue and decreased energy levels
Infertility or reduced fertility
Decreased muscle mass and strength
Osteoporosis or decreased bone density
Changes in mood and cognitive function
Diagnosis: Diagnosing hypogonadism involves a thorough evaluation of medical history, physical examination, and blood tests to measure testosterone and other hormone levels. Additional tests, such as imaging or genetic testing, may be necessary to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment: Treatment options for hypogonadism depend on the underlying cause and may include:
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT): Similar to testosterone deficiency, TRT can be used to supplement testosterone levels.
Medications or treatments targeting the underlying cause: For example, surgery or radiation therapy for testicular tumors or treatment for pituitary gland disorders.
Other Male Hormone Disorders:
In addition to testosterone deficiency and hypogonadism, there are several other male hormone disorders that can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance in men. Here are a few notable examples:
Hyperthyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. The increased levels of thyroid hormones can lead to symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, irritability, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Hyperthyroidism can affect testosterone production and result in hormonal imbalances in men.
Hypothyroidism: In contrast to hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to insufficient production of thyroid hormones. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression, reduced libido, and muscle weakness. Hypothyroidism can also contribute to male hormonal imbalances and impact testosterone levels.
Adrenal Insufficiency: The adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough of these hormones. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, and mood changes. While adrenal insufficiency primarily affects cortisol levels, it can also disrupt testosterone production and overall hormonal balance.
Prolactinoma: A prolactinoma is a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland that produces excessive amounts of the hormone prolactin. Elevated prolactin levels can lead to decreased testosterone production, resulting in symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, infertility, and reduced muscle mass.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosing male hormone disorders requires a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. The diagnostic process typically involves a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests to measure hormone levels. Additional imaging or specialized tests may be necessary to identify the underlying cause of the hormonal imbalance.
The treatment options for male hormone disorders depend on the specific condition and its underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:
Hormone Replacement Therapy: In cases where hormone deficiencies are identified, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be prescribed. HRT involves the administration of synthetic hormones to supplement or replace the deficient hormones, restoring hormonal balance.
Medications: Depending on the specific condition, medications may be prescribed to address the underlying cause or manage symptoms. For example, medications to regulate thyroid function or reduce prolactin levels may be utilized.
Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on hormonal balance. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management techniques, and sufficient sleep can all contribute to optimizing hormone levels.
Surgical Interventions: In certain cases, surgical interventions may be necessary. For example, removing a prolactinoma or addressing testicular or pituitary gland abnormalities may require surgical procedures.
Conclusion:
Hormonal imbalances in men, including testosterone deficiency, hypogonadism, and other male hormone disorders, can have significant effects on physical, emotional, and reproductive health. Recognizing the symptoms, seeking timely medical evaluation, and pursuing appropriate treatment options can help restore hormonal balance and improve overall well-being. If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in endocrinology or hormonal disorders to receive an accurate diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan. For more information on holistic approaches to maintaining hormonal health, you can visit Holistic Foods.
About the author
Charlotte
Charlotte is a health, beauty and wellness blogger and a mother of two, who lives between India and London