Polycystic ovarian syndrome: What are the symptoms of PCOS and how fatal can it be?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is not a disease but a syndrome where women have a hormonal imbalance and irregular menses.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is not a disease but a syndrome where women have a hormonal imbalance and irregular menses. It’s commonly seen in women of reproductive age group - 17-36 years.
Irregular menses is the first indication of PCOS. There is also weight gain, oily skin, and hair loss associated. The diagnosis is made by blood tests for hormones and sonography of the pelvis.
The important thing to understand is that the term PCOS is a misnomer. There are no “cysts”. What’s seen on Sonography is excess ovarian follicles which are unable to grow and ovulate at right time leading to irregular menses and in turn, infertility. Infertility due to PCOS is increasing in young women due to western diet, sedentary habits.
Missed periods, irregular periods, or very light periods
Ovaries that are large or have many cysts
Excess body hair, including the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism)
Weight gain, especially around the belly (abdomen)
Acne or oily skin
Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
Infertility
Small pieces of excess skin on the neck or armpits (skin tags)
Dark or thick skin patches on the back of the neck, in the armpits, and under the breasts
PCOS is approached as a syndrome and NOT a disease.
Women can contribute majorly by following a healthy lifestyle which is the first step in treatment.
Ideally, this should start in adolescent girls.
Diet rich in proteins, and less in fat and sugars is recommended. It’s also very important to have a regular exercise schedule.
Cutting out junk food, and daily exercise can help. Even a 5% loss in weight is very helpful in-restoring menses and helping ovulation.
Refined carbohydrates, such as mass-produced pastries and white bread.
Fried foods, such as fast food.
Sugary beverages, such as sodas and energy drinks.
Processed meats, such as hot dogs, sausages, and luncheon meats.
Solid fats, including margarine, shortening, and lard.
Excess red meat, such as steaks, hamburgers, and pork.
Limit the intake of alcohol.
It is important to note that PCOS itself is not life-threatening but those who have PCOS are at an increased risk of several other serious health conditions such as Type II diabetes, cardiovascular problems, endometrial cancer, and liver inflammation, among others.