Hello doctor, I am a 20 year old female. I suspect that I may have a hormonal condition, such as PCOS or hypothyroidism, and wanted to get an opinion based on my symptoms. I have compiled a list of symptoms that I have been experiencing so far; 1) Excess hair growth: “Beard” area, bikini line, legs, underarms, nipples. Shaving and waxing cause painful ingrown hairs, despite correct shaving technique. 2) Bloating and constipation: Sometimes, without a bowel movement for around a week. Distended abdomen, made worse after particular meals. 3) Irregular periods: Often skipping a month or coming twice in the same month. It can be very long (several weeks), short (a day or two), heavy (bleeding though tampon in less than an hour), or light (just spotting). Occasional gushes of watery, pinkish blood discharge. Minimal cramping, no unusual pain. 4) Sleep problems: Trouble falling asleep and waking up refreshed. Often tired during the day, even after a full night of sleep. 5) Fatigue: Almost always sluggish. “sick” feeling. Lightheadedness in the shower. 6) Anxiety: Feels irritation and becoming overwhelmed and emotional. Often a sudden onset. 7) Skin problems: Dyshidrotic eczema on hands. Mild to moderate acne on the face, shoulders, back, stomach, bikini line, butt, and legs, leaving marks for long periods. Recurring pink, irritating rash-causing discharge inside the belly button. 8) Small amount of weight gain: Around 10 lbs. Very visible around the midrib area. A few stretch marks on back and legs. 9) Overly visible veins, especially in legs. 10) Irregular headaches, sometimes accompanied by bloating and constipation. 11) Scoliosis: Occasional back pain after long periods of standing, sitting, or physical activity, which does not cause significant problems. 12) Mild thinning of hair on the head. I need advice based on these symptoms. Is it likely either of these conditions or something different?
Hello. Your symptoms are suggestive of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). However, there are certain conditions that mimic PCOS, like thyroid, adrenal problem, and hyperprolactinemia, etc. You need to visit a gynecologist or endocrinologist as certain details like testosterone levels, ultrasound abdomen, and pelvis, thyroid, and cortisol; etc., are needed If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can improve many of your symptoms. Losing just 5 % of your body weight can help a lot. The most common treatment is to take birth control pills. The pills do not cure PCOS, but they can improve many of its symptoms, like irregular periods, acne, and facial hair. Birth control pills also protect women from cancer of the uterus. Women with PCOS can live normal lives. But it is important to consult a doctor and treat accordingly. Treatments will help your symptoms and protect you from other possible diseases.