The condition of high testosterone levels in women may trigger several unwanted symptoms which may not only be problematic to deal with, but embarrassing as well. This article provides information about the various symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for this condition.
Testosterone is an androgenic hormone, that is mainly responsible for the development of male secondary sex characters such as muscle, bone mass, etc. It is also required for the development of the testes and the prostate gland. However, in women this hormone gets manufactured in the ovaries. The adrenal glands are also responsible for producing it, but in small amounts. Unlike in men, the testosterone levels should be low in women, otherwise, it can give rise to a number of complications.
Symptoms
Hair Overgrowth
High levels of testosterone in women causes increased facial hair growth that is visible on areas such as the upper lip and face. The overgrowth also occurs on the chest, nipples, lower abdominal area, and other parts of the body. The condition can get so severe in some women that their facial hair turn course and dark, eventually looking like a beard.
Voice changes
The overgrowth of hair may somehow be managed. But if the voice deepens, then it may be very depressing for the affected person. The development of high vocal pitch could also be one of the symptoms of this condition.
Abnormal Changes in the Body
If the condition is left untreated for a long time, a condition known as virilization may occur. This causes changes such as, increase in muscle mass and redistribution of body fat. In some cases, the patient may experience enlargement of the clitoris.
Baldness
Another classic symptom is androgenic alopecia. Here, the patient may experience thinning of scalp hair.
Other symptoms may include skin disorders and depression. Complications of the condition may include heart diseases, diabetes, breast cancer, and cancer of the uterine lining.
Causes
The main cause of this condition is a hormonal imbalance. Although, this can occur at any age, most cases occur in the thirties. This imbalance can also give rise to certain disorders related with the adrenal gland and the ovaries. Medical disorders which may cause this condition include Conn’s syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome, ovarian tumor, thyroid problems, etc. Improper usage of steroid drugs may also result in this condition.
Treatment
The treatment may consist of certain lifestyle changes, alternative medications, and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Lifestyle changes may include taking up stress reduction practices such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercises. A diet that includes plenty of fruits, salads, fish, nuts, and seeds also helps in dealing with the condition naturally.
Use of acupuncture, biofeedback, or massage along with certain herbs are included in the alternative treatment. As far as the TRT is concerned, it is opted only when all other options fail to provide any positive results. The risks associated with this kind of treatment is high and so is the cost. The TRT is an aggressive form of a treatment which helps in stabilizing the hormonal imbalance. However, its side effects could be severe.
The symptoms that this condition cause in women may be disheartening. However, by following a healthy lifestyle, one can cope with such disorders in an easier way.
Disclaimer: This HerHaleness article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
