What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

You may have heard about Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), since an increasing number of women seem to have this disorder. PCOS brings several challenges, such as becoming pregnant or having signs of excess male hormones (androgens), producing unwanted hair growth or acne.

Initially, PCOS was only seen as a reproductive problem. However, modern medicine now tells us that PCOS is an endocrine or metabolic disorder. PCOS is often the forerunner of endocrine diseases too, like Type 2 Diabetes. Insulin resistance may lead to increased insulin levels and decreased sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) made by the liver, resulting in an increase in active androgens. Insulin may also increase appetite, causing weight gain. Numerous effects follow, such as metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and sleep apnea. PCOS sufferers are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. They are also likely to experience miscarriages or other pregnancy complications.

PCOS may present itself in a variety of ways. For instance, one woman may have high androgen, low ovulation and polycystic ovaries while another may not show any one of these symptoms. Some common symptoms of PCOS include –

• infertility
• irregular periods, including more frequent periods or long gaps between periods
• acne
• weight gain
• unwanted hair on the upper lip, chin, neck, upper chest, abdomen, back, arms and thighs
• hair loss on the temporal regions of the scalp
• hair loss or thinning
• darkening of the skin around the armpits, groin or back of the neck

Testing for PCOS may include lab tests for levels of testosterone, thyroid hormone, progesterone and an oral glucose challenge test and ultrasounds.

Fortunately, patients can take several steps to improve their health. The most important is to eat a whole food, non-processed diet and maintain an active lifestyle since insulin resistance is central to this syndrome.

Losing as little as 5% of the extra body weight can help in regulating menstrual cycles and ovulation and even improve SHBG levels. Diet is critical to managing PCOS, as many foods can contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance in the body. Your doctor may also prescribe supplements. Another important thing to do is to prevent stress. Excess stress increases cortisol levels, which also causes insulin resistance.

For treatment, your doctor may prescribe such as hormonal therapy and antiandrogen medications.

If you suspect you are suffering from PCOS or have been experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, it is best to consult an internal medicine doctor right away.

If you are looking for the best internal medicine doctors, pain management doctors, or house call doctor in San Diego, call Pacific Medical Care at 619-333-8114 Today. All you have to do is make a phone call and the doctor will be at your doorstep within a short while! The San Diego internal medicine doctors at Pacific Medical Care are Board Certified, highly skilled, compassionate and knowledgeable.

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pacificmedical Joined: October 24th, 2018