Is hirsutism hereditary?
A tendency to hirsutism does run in some families and is not associated with an excess of androgens. It is normal in some families with Mediterranean or Middle Eastern ancestry. What are the symptoms of hirsutism? Having too much hair can be highly embarrassing and cause great distress. What does hirsutism look like? The excess of thick, often dark, hair may be seen on the face, chest, abdomen and upper back. Women from certain ethnic groups tend to have more body hair than others and for them it may be quite normal to have some hair in these areas. How will hirsutism be diagnosed? Women with mild hirsutism and regular menstrual cycles seldom have an underlying medical problem. However, if a medical problem exists, your doctor should be able to detect it by asking you questions and then, if necessary, by performing blood tests. It is important to see your doctor if your hirsutism is: • Severe. • Developing quickly (over 1-2 years), or before puberty. • Accompanied by menstrual problems
