<p>Acne and excessive growth of facial hair are some of the common complaints of women today. Topical treatments are temporary and may not address the root cause. It is important to understand the symptoms and get checked for the polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). One in five adult women and two in five adolescents in India suffer from PCOS. Acne and hirsutism are the most devastating physical symptoms of the disorder.</p>.<p><strong>Symptoms</strong></p>.<p>PCOS causes excessive growth of facial hair in women called hirsutism, which is seen as coarse, dark hair that may appear on the face, chest, abdomen, back, upper arms, or upper legs. Imbalance of hormones also triggers acne. Both these symptoms not only affect the physical appearance of women but if left unaddressed shakes her confidence. </p>.<p><strong>Treatment</strong></p>.<p>Though PCOS is a challenging syndrome to manage, there is ample opportunity for prevention of risks. Healthy, balanced diet is vital — five small meals per day with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and salads. Adequate water intake is also important. This should be combined with a daily one-hour routine of sweat-inducing exercises. </p>.<p><em>(The author is consultant gynaecologist and sub-specialist in infertility, Fortis Hospitals)</em></p>
<p>Acne and excessive growth of facial hair are some of the common complaints of women today. Topical treatments are temporary and may not address the root cause. It is important to understand the symptoms and get checked for the polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). One in five adult women and two in five adolescents in India suffer from PCOS. Acne and hirsutism are the most devastating physical symptoms of the disorder.</p>.<p><strong>Symptoms</strong></p>.<p>PCOS causes excessive growth of facial hair in women called hirsutism, which is seen as coarse, dark hair that may appear on the face, chest, abdomen, back, upper arms, or upper legs. Imbalance of hormones also triggers acne. Both these symptoms not only affect the physical appearance of women but if left unaddressed shakes her confidence. </p>.<p><strong>Treatment</strong></p>.<p>Though PCOS is a challenging syndrome to manage, there is ample opportunity for prevention of risks. Healthy, balanced diet is vital — five small meals per day with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and salads. Adequate water intake is also important. This should be combined with a daily one-hour routine of sweat-inducing exercises. </p>.<p><em>(The author is consultant gynaecologist and sub-specialist in infertility, Fortis Hospitals)</em></p>