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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition when one has cysts in the ovaries. It is best to see a gynecologist in bangalore as soon as possible because this can lead to various health issues, one such is irregular periods as ovaries fail to release eggs or ovulate regularly. The other issue is you may release high levels of male hormones which result in excess facial or body hair. Ovaries tend to become enlarged and get filled with fluid sacs or follicles that surround eggs. People diagnosed with PCOS may see unexpected and sudden weight gain along with going through hormonal imbalances. Gynaecologists, nutritionists and health experts suggest that PCOS is largely a lifestyle-related disease. Lack of exercise, poor eating habits, smoking, alcohol abuse and poor disrupted sleep can be major contributing factors of PCOS. Notice the first signs of PCOS carefully because it can help you take appropriate measures to control and reverse it.

Some of the first signs of PCOS that you must not ignore are:

1. Irregular periods are undoubtedly the first and foremost signs of PCOS. If you notice that your menstrual cycle is featuring periods that come earlier than 21 days or for that matter comes later than 35 days in adults and 45 days in teens, it may be an evident sign of PCOS.

2. If you are experiencing difficulty in getting pregnant, it is also another sign of PCOS. If you have been trying for too long, it might be a good option to get yourself diagnosed for it.

3. If you suddenly start noticing oily skin or lots of acne, it may be one of the first signs of PCOS that must not be ignored.

4. If you are experiencing excess hair loss or your hair is thinning, it could hint at PCOS and must be taken seriously if it continues for a long period of time.

5. If you are living with PCOS, it can increase the risks of type 2 diabetes.

6. Mood swings and depression are largely associated with the condition of PCOS and affects your self-confidence and self-esteem.

7. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are evident risk factors of PCOS. It additionally increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

8. PCOS can make you overweight and cause sleep apnea, this is a specific condition where you may have breathing problems while sleeping.

9. Women who experience irregular or few periods are at risk of endometrial cancer or cancer of the womb lining.

How can you prevent PCOS?

One of the first and major changes you must bring when you have PCOS or you are willing to prevent it is by improving your lifestyle. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet can help you and also aid weight loss. Losing weight can be very helpful for women or girls suffering from PCOS. You have to try and lead a stress-free life because it is the key to prevent PCOS. Sometimes as a result of excessive stress, you may have a delayed or irregular menstrual cycle. Practice yoga and meditation to seek relief from stress and prevent PCOS.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

The symptoms related to PCOS, like irregular periods, can be related to many other conditions. It is often difficult for women to figure out the cause and get a diagnosis. There is no single test to diagnose PCOS, so your doctor will assess you based on your health history and a physical examination. Apart from closely following your menstrual cycles, your doctor will also check your weight, acne, hair growth patterns and your family’s medical history regarding periods, PCOS and infertility.

Your doctor will most likely ask you to get certain blood tests done to check your hormones, thyroid and other areas to rule out other causes and to confirm the diagnosis of PCOS. An ultrasound may be required to check your ovaries for cysts.

The difference between PCOS and PCOD symptoms

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a disorder of the endocrine system, while PCOD is a condition developed due to the imbalance of hormones. PCOS is a serious condition and PCOD is more common. With PCOD you can ovulate regularly and not have any fertility issues like in case of PCOS.

Things to do if you want to fight PCOS

1. Smoking can increase your risk of heart disease, atherosclerosis and diabetes. You are at a much higher risk of developing those conditions when you already have PCOS. Speak to your doctor and seek help to get over the habit of smoking.
2. You should not eat high-sugar foods because PCOS is linked to insulin resistance. This can alter the way your body is able to process and deal with sugar. If left unchecked, insulin resistance can lead to diabetes and significantly worsen complications. Proper and healthy diet is important to maintain when you have PCOS.
3. Exercise plays a key role in lowering your risk of heart disease when you have PCOS. It also prevents you from getting obese. You should walk more, lift weights to add and strengthen muscle, as it will increase your metabolism and improve insulin.
4. Remember to never skip a doctor’s appointment. Regular full body checkups help monitor your health, detect complications, if any and keep you healthy. The scheduled visits are important to keep track of your condition and make sure that you stay symptom-free. This is also vital if you are undergoing infertility treatment.

Tips for Coping with the Symptoms of PCOS

1. Do not forget to keep track of your periods. Not having regular periods can put you at risk for endometrial cancer. When life gets busy, it is normal to lose track of your last period, but designate a special place or calendar to mark it down. Your doctor needs to know if you are consistently missing periods or if you are well on time.
2. Do not ignore symptoms at any cost, there are medications and treatment available and your doctor will guide you accordingly.
3. People suffering from PCOS have an increased risk of sleep disturbances, do not underestimate your need for sleep because not getting enough sleep can interrupt the hormones that control your hunger, leading to consumption of more calories and unhealthy foods. Getting enough sleep can actually help you lose weight and make you feel better.
4. Regularly take your medications, skipping doses makes the medication ineffective or even dangerous.
5. Symptoms of depression are common it is a serious condition that affects people with PCOS. If you think you might be depressed, having difficulty in eating or sleeping, weight loss or gain, don’t hesitate to Consult Doctor Online or counselor.
6. Try not to keep it to yourself, only talking about your health issues will help people understand you better. Seek support, and talk to people your close to, let them assure you that you will be fine.

Conclusion

Find a gynecologist in bangalore easily through MediBuddy. As early as you address your health issues, you have better chances of taking the treatment positively.