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Hidden-Cause PCOS

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Iqra Mazhar

Overview

It is a simpler form of PCOS caused by factors blocking ovulation. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos">Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)</a> affects millions of women worldwide and is a common cause of infertility and anovulation<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. While there are different types of PCOS, hidden-cause is a simpler form of the disorder. It can result from thyroid issues, a vegetarian diet, and artificial sweeteners. <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/hypothyroidism">Hypothyroidism</a> is the most common hidden cause of PCOS. Approximately, 25% of all women with PCOS have an undiagnosed thyroid issue<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

Hidden-cause PCOS typically resolves within three to four months of treating the underlying cause. 
&nbsp;

There are no subtypes of hidden-cause PCOS. 
&nbsp;

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of hidden-cause PCOS include:

<ul>
	<li>Irregular menstrual cycles</li>
	<li>Infrequent or absent ovulation</li>
	<li>Hirsutism (excessive hair growth)</li>
	<li>Acne</li>
	<li>Polycystic ovaries (seen on ultrasound)</li>
	<li>Weight gain or obesity</li>
	<li>Insulin resistance</li>
	<li>Hair thinning</li>
	<li>Skin changes (skin tags, dark patches)</li>
	<li>Mood changes (mood swings, depression, anxiety)</li>
	<li>Sleep disturbances</li>
	<li>Acanthosis nigricans (darkening of the skin)</li>
	<li>Pelvic pain</li>
	<li>Fatigue</li>
	<li>Fertility issues 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: Remember that PCOS symptoms can vary among individuals, and not everyone will experience all of these symptoms. If you suspect you have PCOS, it&#39;s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management. 
&nbsp;

Causes

The term &quot;hidden-cause PCOS&quot; appears to refer to a subtype or specific underlying causes of PCOS that are proposed to be easily addressable and result in a quick resolution of PCOS symptoms. The causes of this particular type of PCOS include<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Soy - Soy is suggested to have anti-estrogenic effects, potentially hindering ovulation in some women.</li>
	<li>Thyroid Disease - Thyroid dysfunction is mentioned as a hidden cause because the ovaries require the T3 thyroid hormone for proper function.</li>
	<li>Vegetarian Diet - A vegetarian diet is proposed as a hidden cause due to the potential for zinc deficiency, which is suggested to affect ovarian function.</li>
	<li>Iodine Deficiency - Iodine deficiency is included as a hidden cause because ovaries are said to require iodine for their proper functioning.</li>
	<li>Artificial Sweeteners - Artificial sweeteners are believed to have negative effects on insulin and leptin signaling.</li>
	<li>Too Little Starch In Diet - Inadequate consumption of starch is suggested as a hidden cause because the hormonal system is said to require gentle carbohydrates. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

There are currently no screening guidelines for hidden-cause PCOS. However, a detailed history can go a long way in identifying the condition. 
&nbsp;

Diagnosis

The following tests and examinations help diagnose hidden-cause PCOS:

<ul>
	<li>Medical History And Symptom Evaluation - Healthcare professionals will gather information about the patient&rsquo;s menstrual history, symptoms (such as irregular periods, hirsutism, acne, etc.), and any relevant medical conditions. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Physical Examination -&nbsp;A physical examination may be conducted to assess signs of PCOS, such as excess hair growth, acne, and signs of insulin resistance. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Blood Tests - Blood tests may be ordered to measure hormone levels, including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) and altered hormone ratios are often seen in PCOS. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ultrasound - A pelvic ultrasound may be performed to visualize the ovaries and look for the presence of multiple small cysts. However, ovarian cysts are not necessary for a PCOS diagnosis. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Exclusion Of Other Conditions - Other conditions that can mimic PCOS symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or adrenal gland disorders, need to be ruled out. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Treatment

The treatment of hidden-cause PCOS required addressing the underlying factor. The condition typically resolves within 3-4 months.

Based on the proposed causes, the following treatment strategies can be employed:

<ul>
	<li>Reducing or avoiding soy consumption.</li>
	<li>Managing thyroid disease through medication or other appropriate interventions.</li>
	<li>Ensuring sufficient zinc intake through dietary changes or supplements.</li>
	<li>Addressing iodine deficiency through dietary changes or iodine supplementation.</li>
	<li>Reducing or avoiding artificial sweeteners.</li>
	<li>Including sufficient &quot;gentle&quot; carbohydrates in the diet. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

If left untreated, hidden-cause PCOS can lead to the following complications:

<ul>
	<li>Gestational diabetes</li>
	<li>Pregnancy</li>
	<li>Type 2 diabetes</li>
	<li>Cardiovascular disease</li>
	<li>Miscarriage</li>
	<li>Depression or anxiety 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The following factors can increase the risk of hidden-cause PCOS:

<ul>
	<li>Family history of PCOS</li>
	<li>Obesity</li>
	<li>A vegetarian diet</li>
	<li>Soy consumption</li>
	<li>Excessive use of artificial sweeteners</li>
	<li>A diet lacking carbohydrates, e.g., the keto diet 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The following measures can help promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent PCOS:

<ul>
	<li>A healthy, balanced diet</li>
	<li>Active lifestyle</li>
	<li>Limiting processed and artificially sweetened foods</li>
	<li>Managing stress</li>
	<li>Adequate sleep 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Hidden-cause PCOS is a simpler form of PCOS that results from thyroid issues, a vegetarian diet, artificial sweeteners, soy, and iodine deficiency.</li>
	<li>It typically resolves within 3 to 4 months of addressing the underlying cause.</li>
	<li>Hypothyroidism is a prominent hidden cause; 25% of PCOS cases may involve undiagnosed thyroid problems.</li>
	<li>Hidden-cause PCOS symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism, acne, weight gain, insulin resistance, and more.</li>
	<li>Treatment strategies encompass managing thyroid dysfunction, correcting nutrient deficiencies (zinc, iodine), reducing soy intake, avoiding artificial sweeteners, and ensuring adequate &quot;gentle&quot; carbohydrate consumption.</li>
	<li>To prevent PCOS, it is important to promote a healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet, physical activity, stress management, adequate sleep, and limiting processed and artificially sweetened foods.</li>
</ul>