According to a story from msn.com, a significant portion of woman may notice a small number of hairs growing on their chin at some point in their lives. In most cases they probably do not indicate an underlying health issue. Some women are simply more genetically predisposed to getting a few chin hairs, and they can also appear due to aging, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, or birth control. However, in some cases, they can be an indicator much more serious rare diseases.
Chin hair can appear as the result of polycystic ovary syndrome. This probably will not be the first symptom that a patient would notice however, as people with polycystic ovary syndrome also experience irregular menstruation (heavy periods or none at all), acne, infertility, ovarian cysts, trouble losing weight, and patches of thick, darkened, velvety skin. Polycystic ovary syndrome is also associated with other serious conditions, so if these symptoms begin appearing alongside chin hair, than a visit to the doctor is definitely in order.
Chin hair is also associated with Cushing syndrome, which is linked to excess production of the stress hormone cortisol. Once again, patients will experience far more prominent symptoms such as abdominal obesity, a round, reddish face, bone and muscle weakness, red stretch marks, acne, a lump of fat between the shoulders, and irregular menstruation. In many cases, Cushing syndrome can be successfully treated and cured. In some cases it can be caused by medications, so make sure to consult with your doctor to determine if this could be a factor.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is another disease that causes chin hair to develop. Symptoms in women result from the excess production of androgens, which can cause virilization, or the development of male characteristics, which can include changes to the genitalia, puberty occurring either very early or very late, irregular menstruation, and infertility. This disease is linked to genetic changes and is typically diagnosed at birth.
If you are a woman and have chin hair and otherwise feel healthy, there is a good chance that it is not a sign of something serious. Nevertheless, it is always wise to remain vigilant and to be aware of more serious diseases that can cause it to appear.
