Patient's Query
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 your opinion based on these symptoms. Is it likely either of these conditions or something different?
Kindly advise.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Your symptoms are suggestive of PCOS/PMOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome/Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome). However, there are certain conditions that mimic PCOS/PMOS, like thyroid, adrenal problems, and hyperprolactinemia, etc.
You need to visit a gynecologist or endocrinologist, as certain details like testosterone levels, ultrasound of the abdomen, 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/PMOS, 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/PMOS 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.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Sagar Ramesh Makode
Medically reviewed byDr. Hemalatha
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
PCOS: A Common Hormonal Disorder In Women
Can thyroid problem cause excessive hair fall?
Can thyroid problems cause fluctuation in heart rate and Bp?
Can thyroid problems cause weight gain and fatigue?
The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Link With Autism
Inositol Supplement for PCOS - An Overview
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.