Like it or not, we all have body hair. It’s very normal and you shouldn’t worry, even if you’re not a big fan. However, if the location and texture have changed, it may be an indication of a health issue and this article will explain why.
We have found out what may be causing changes in body hair growth and when you may need to see a specialist.
Let’s define what types of body hair we can have.
Vellus hair is that tiny, very thin hair that basically covers your entire body, it’s so thin that you hardly notice it.
Terminal hair is much longer, stronger, thicker, and generally much darker than hair, and we begin to acquire it during puberty. This is the type of hair that begins to develop when our body goes through severe hormonal changes, and this is what you should watch out for.
Genetic
If you experience a sudden growth of thick dark hair in what are called masculine patterns, take a look at your grandmother’s photos. No matter what we have achieved with modern technology, we cannot fool genetics.
Ethnic Background
This study shows that different ethnic groups are more or less likely to have excessive hair growth. Women of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern descent are more likely to develop this condition. Other ethnic groups fall somewhere in between.
A Hormonal Imbalance
Sudden hair growth may be due to a male hormone imbalance. Men and women have these hormones, and women generally have them at a relatively low level and in a specific ratio compared to their female hormones.
If your testosterone level rises, your body has too many male hormones and begins to behave in accordance with your condition.
Another situation that leads to the same result is the decrease in estrogen levels, which can be due to menopause, for example. Either way, the male/female hormonal profile goes out of its normal balance.
Adrenal Gland Disorders
The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys and if the adrenal glands do not work as they should, the hormonal balance changes, and excessive growth of body hair is one of the biggest symptoms.
Other symptoms of adrenal gland problems:
- hypertension
- upper body weight gain
- blood sugar levels that are too low or too high
- Headaches
- muscular weakness
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome is another common cause of hirsutism, and if you also have irregular periods, it is very possible that you do.
This condition is caused by enlarged ovaries that contain small collections of fluid, called follicles, that require medical attention. Other symptoms of this condition include:
- humor changes
- Headaches
- fatigue
- trouble sleeping
Unusual Tissue Growth
If hirsutism develops very suddenly, such as within a few months, you should see your doctor. This dramatic hair growth is a sign of an extreme increase in testosterone level and maybe the result of some type of abnormal tissue growth, even a tumor, that is releasing male hormones.
It is not very common, but if the changes happen that quickly, it is worth a look. It is always best to prevent than to cure.
How do you feel about body hair? Would you rather get rid of it or do you prefer the natural look? Did you find this article interesting and useful? Let us know in the comments below.
Preview photo credit shutterstock.com
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