This is part 1 of the series that Dr Lavina Batra, Life Care Clinic has written on PCOD(Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). This article outlinesPCOS condition and its Diagnosis for everyone’s awareness.
PCOS is a condition in which women’s hormone levels are severely impacted. This leads toirregular periods and risks pregnancy chances.
PCOS interferes with the ovulation process, affects women’s ovaries and its capability toproduce correct hormones. Women do not make eggs normally and they either do not getperiods or get highly irregular periods than usual. In addition to reducing her chances to getpregnant it also causes depression, anxiety and mood disorders. If left untreated, PCOS isalso known to increase risk of heart disease, metabolism problems, and cause obesity.
Indicators:
Women suffering from PCOS may experience 1) Irregular menses, 2) Loss of hair, 3) lowenergy and fatigue-ness, 4) unwanted hair growth, 5) weight gain, 6) mood fluctuations, and7) headache and difficulty in maintaining sleep cycles.It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you have symptoms of PCOS and to workclosely with your doctor to manage the condition and prevent potential complications.
Causes
Exact cause of PCOS is subject of ongoing study, but medical science relates PCOS to acombination of Hormone imbalance and genetics. High levels of male hormone calledandrogen is often the leading cause of PCOS; androgen interferes with ovulation anddevelops multiple cyst on the ovaries. Genetic factors too play a role, so if someone in thefamily had PCOS, chances are that it is passed on to others.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is based on a combination of clinicalsigns and symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Some of the commondiagnostic criteria include:
1. Ovarian cysts: Presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, as seen on ultrasound.
2. Hormonal imbalances: Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin,and irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
3. Physical examination: Physical examination may reveal signs of androgen excess,such as hirsutism (excess hair growth) and acne.
4. Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to measure levels of hormones, glucose,cholesterol and others, and to rule out other conditions that can cause similarsymptoms.
5. Medical history: A review of medical history, including any symptoms and familyhistory of related conditions, may also be taken into consideration.
A doctor will also review the person’s medical history and physically examine them to ruleout other conditions. They may also use ultrasounds and blood tests to reach a diagnosis.
FAQ:
When should I visit the doctor?
Get evaluated for PCOS if
• You have an irregular menstrual cycle, short cycles, or prolonged cycles (beyond 35days or so)
• Increased hair growth on face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes•
Your skin is breaking out or you get acne, oily skin, or dandruff
• You have gained extra weight around your tummy
• Darkening of skin around your neck
A person should talk with their doctor if they experience PCOS symptoms. A healthcare professional can rule out other conditions, and depending on the outcome, diagnose PCOS.
If symptoms become worse or do not respond to treatment, it is important that people lettheir doctor know. It can take some time to find a suitable and effective treatment for a person with PCOS.