Best hirsutism Doctors in Kolkata

Hirsutism is a condition experienced by many women globally, characterised by excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in typically male-associated areas such as the face, chest, and back. It arises from an overproduction of male hormones (androgens), primarily testosterone, which triggers this abnormal hair growth. Common causes include Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, as well as lifestyle and health conditions such as obesity and thyroid disorders.

In Kolkata, doctors specialising in hirsutism treatment are frequently sought after to address abnormal hair growth. Women suffering from this condition often consult doctors for abnormal hair growth at Apollo Hospitals, who can guide them through diagnosis and potential treatments.

Types/Stages of Hirsutism

The stages of hirsutism are defined by the progression and distribution of hair growth on the body. They include:

• Mild Hirsutism: Excess hair growth is minimal and typically restricted to a few areas such as the upper lip, chin, or lower abdomen.

• Moderate Hirsutism: Hair growth becomes more noticeable and covers larger areas of the body, including the face, chest, back, and thighs.

• Severe Hirsutism: There is widespread and coarse hair growth over many parts of the body, often including the back, chest, abdomen, and limbs.

Symptoms of Hirsutism

Comprehending the symptoms of hirsutism is a key step towards seeking professional medical advice. They include:

• Excessive hair growth appears on the face, chest, back, lower abdomen, upper arms, or lower legs, resembling male-pattern hair growth.

• Development of male secondary sex characteristics, such as a deepening voice, balding, acne, decreased breast size, increased muscle mass, and enlargement of the clitoris.

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles, especially in cases associated with PCOS.

Tests to Diagnose Hirsutism

Doctors for excessive hair growth at Apollo Hospitals, Kolkata, conduct several tests to diagnose hirsutism. These include:

• Medical History: This helps doctors understand the progression and onset of symptoms. This includes inquiries about menstrual history, medication usage, and family history of hirsutism.

• Physical Examination: Doctors look for signs of hyperandrogenism such as acne, oily skin and a masculine voice. They also assess signs of virilisation, such as increased muscle mass.

• Total Testosterone Test: Elevated levels of total testosterone in the blood may indicate excessive androgen production, suggesting conditions like PCOS or adrenal gland disorders.

• Free Testosterone Test: This test measures the bioavailable testosterone that is not bound to proteins in the blood. Elevated levels of free testosterone are often seen in PCOS

• Androgen Profile: This measures various androgens to identify the specific hormonal imbalances underlying hirsutism.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Hirsutism at Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata

The approach of the best doctors treating hirsutism at Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata varies based on the severity and cause of the condition. Treatment options include:

• Self-Care Methods: For mild hirsutism, patients are often advised to use regular shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams to manage and reduce hair growth.

• Topical Treatments: Creams or gels containing active ingredients like eflornithine (a hair growth inhibitor), finasteride (which blocks testosterone conversion), or spironolactone (an anti-androgen) are recommended for mild to moderate hirsutism.

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

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Combination oral contraceptives or progestin-only pills are commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles and lower androgen levels in conditions like PCOS.

• Surgical procedures: In rare instances where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical procedures such as laser hair removal or electrolysis offer more permanent solutions by targeting and removing hair follicles.