| PCOS Symptoms 2 |
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Fatigue - We hear from many women with PCOS who are tired all the time! Fatigue is a common symptom that may be related to PCOS in that insulin resistance can be one cause of reduced energy levels. Furthermore, many women with PCOS also have low thyroid function (hypothyroidism), a very common endocrine condition, which itself causes fatigue. Mood Swings - Many women with PCOS may find themselves more anxious or depressed by their appearance or their inability to become pregnant. Mood swings can also be caused by hormone problems. Managing your PCOS symptoms may help to relieve depression. High cholesterol and High Blood Pressure - Increased LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) will increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Extra attention needs to be paid to cholesterol levels and also blood pressure, as both of these markers of heart disease. Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism) - This symptom causes excess hair, which can be difficult for many women. For most PCOS sufferers, hair in the moustache and beard areas becomes heavier and darker. Hair growth on the arms and legs is also a possibility, as well as hair on abdomen, chest or back, together with more growth in the pubic area. This condition is due to high levels of male hormones. Polycystic ovaries are defined as 12 or more follicles in at least one ovary as seen by ultrasound. Follicles are small, fluid-filled sacs containing eggs. In PCOS, the follicles bunch together to form cysts. Other Skin Problems - thick lumps of skin sometimes as large as raisins - can form as a result of PCOS. They are usually found in the armpits, at the bra line or neck and can easily be removed by a dermatologist. Darkening and thickening of the skin can also occur around the neck, groin, underarms or skin folds. This condition, called Acanthosis Nigricans, is a sign of Insulin Resistance, the underlying cause of PCOS. Other women with PCOS note an increase in dandruff. Sleep Apnea - Women with PCOS have a high risk for sleep apnea. This may be due to the increased BMI (Body Mass Index) in about half of women with PCOS. Sleep apnea is also caused in people with PCOS because of the effects of testosterone on blood vessels. If you suffer from any of these PCOS symptoms look at the PCOS treatment for ways of treating them. Alternatively, you can also look at more natural methods treating your PCOS.
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