Hirsutism

Your healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination to determine the extent of the uncommon hair growth. They’ll also note any other physical signs that may accompany the hair growth, such as acne.

Once your healthcare provider has diagnosed hirsutism, they may use the Ferriman-Gallwey scale to grade its severity. The Ferriman-Gallwey scale examines nine areas of your body: your upper lip, chin, chest, upper abdomen, lower abdomen, upper arms, thighs, upper back and lower back/butt (buttocks).

These areas receive a 0-4 score based on hair growth. A low number means your hirsutism is mild, and a high number means your hirsutism is more severe.

After examining the areas, your healthcare provider will add the scores together. If you’re Black or white, a total score less than 8 is common. If you’re Mediterranean, Hispanic or Middle Eastern, a total score less than 9 or 10 is common. If you’re Asian, a total score less than 2 is common.

What tests will be done to diagnose hirsutism?

If you have hirsutism, your healthcare provider may perform a variety of tests, including:

Blood tests to check your hormone levels.
Ultrasound to examine your ovaries and uterus.
X-rays to evaluate your ovaries and adrenal glands to rule out other conditions.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

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Diagnosis & treatment

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