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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Too Much Hair

Q: Dear Elena: I am a 21 year old female and I have hair in places I shouldn't. I have always had this problem even when I was a teenager. Is there some way to get rid of this?

A: The normal amount of body hair varies widely among women. Usually, a woman will only grow fine hair on her lips, chin, chest, abdomen, or back. When women grow coarse, dark hairs in these areas, the condition is called hirsutism. This pattern of hair growth is more typical of men.

All women normally produce low levels of male hormones (androgens). Unwanted hair growth in women may occur when the body makes too much male hormone. In most cases, the exact cause is never identified. It tends to run in families. In general, hirsutism is a harmless condition. But many women find it bothersome, or even embarrassing.

A common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS and other hormone conditions that cause unwanted hair growth may also have acne, problems with menstrual periods, trouble losing weight, a deeper voice similar to that of men, and diabetes. If these symptoms start suddenly, there may be a tumor that releases male hormones.

Your doctor should rule out any hormonal imbalance. I often have my patients checked for all sex hormones including prolactin and testosterone, as well as adrenal hormones such as DHEA and cortisol. Any imbalance can be significant contributing factor to your problem. If all of your tests come back normal and you don’t have PCOS, then a hormone detox would be a good place to start. Often environmental toxins mimic sex hormones in their function and over stimulate receptors meant for real hormones. I begin detoxifying the liver as it is the principal detoxifying organ for hormones and other compounds. I often prefer to use DIM (di-indol-methane), a broccoli extracted compound useful for detoxifying hormones related to androgen/estrogen metabolism. However, any liver stimulating herbs such as Dandelion, Artichoke or Milk Thistle can be effective.  Another possible avenue to consider is adding homotoxicological remedies that will help regulate the hormones of all endocrine organs including those of pituitary as well as ovaries and adrenal glands. The treatment is always individualized based on patient needs.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist