Definition of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome(PCOS)
You have most probably not heard of PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome unless someone you know is a sufferer. The NICHD (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development) informed that it is a health problem in which the ovaries, or in certain cases the adrenal glands, of a woman produce more than usual, a hormone called androgens. Such high levels of androgens result in irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and acne. It is necessary to know that women often get many different symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, some of them mild while others are severe. The experience of every woman with this condition is never the same.
Who Suffers from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and What is the Cause?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is an endocrine disorder very common among pubescent women throughout the world. The belief is that genetic factors are involved as plenty of women who have PCOS do have other family members with the condition although researchers have found nothing concrete to claim that PCOS is passed from one family member to another through genes. So, the cause of the disease is not yet known. What we do know is that it is linked to an imbalance of the hormones, androgen which are male hormones. Because almost every system in the body is affected by this imbalance, the symptoms experienced are all so very different. It also causes problems in the processing of blood glucose that is so characteristic of sufferers of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Symptoms normally appear during adolescence and continue into adulthood.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – Video Guide
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Complications
Since many body systems can be affected by Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, there is always the possibility of suffering from many other conditions. So, if your periods are not regular and you usually have about 60 days from one period to the next, you have a better chance at getting endometrial cancer. Regular removal of the endometrial lining is required to avoid abnormal cell growth. In such a case, the patient may take medicine to have the periods occur regularly. Insulin resistance is a common problem for women with PCOS. It leads to the possibility of getting cardiac disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and high cholesterol. The PCOS is the result of these combined factors such as obesity, high cholesterol, and diabetes. A daily exercise program and a balanced diet is necessary to reduce the risk of getting such complications.
What should be done after being Diagnosed?
Getting an endocrinologist you have confidence in guiding you to make the right decisions is of utmost importance. However, whenever you do are uneasy with the diagnosis or treatment choices, get more opinions from other endocrinologists.
Next, get more knowledge and learn about all the possible treatments available as well as ways to control your Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome symptoms. Better understanding will have you feel in better control and informed whenever choice of treatment has to be made. Getting the support of other women who has the same disease, you get help and comfort in knowing that there are many like you. There are organizations and groups to help you find support and knowledge.