The Aga Khan University Hospital, Pakistan > Diseases and Conditions

​Hypergonadism

Hyper-functioning or the excessive activity of the gonads (sex/reproductive glands including the testis and ovaries) is known as hypergonadism. In this disorder, there are abnormally high levels of reproductive hormones, including testosterone or oestrogen, in the body which can lead to puberty at an unusually early age. It can also present itself as precocious puberty.

This hormonal imbalance can be caused by a variety of reasons including the presence of tumours, genetic disorders or autoimmune diseases. Hypergonadism can occur during puberty, in your adulthood or you can be present at birth​.​

The symptoms for hypergonadism manifest themselves differently in men and women. If you believe you may be suffering from the disorder, you may report of the following symptoms:

Symptoms for men:

  • Increased sex drive

  • Early baldness

  • Excessive muscle mass

  • Acne

Symptoms for women:

  • Increased facial hair growth

  • Deepening of voice

  • Coarse body hair

  • Irregular menstrual cycle​

Hypergonadism can be difficult to treat and requires immediate medical attention. If you notice the above mentioned symptoms, you can seek help from our doctors at the Internal Medicine Serv​ice Line at the Aga Khan University Hospital.​​
Your time with your doctor maybe limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​​

On your initial visit, your doctor may conduct a physical exam and ask you to undergo a blood test to check the levels of hormones in your blood. 

If the levels are abnormally high, further tests may be conducted including:

  • Blood test to check the cortisol levels

  • Pelvic ultrasound to look at the ovaries and adrenals

  • Brain imaging to check for tumours on the pituitary gland​​

Treatment for hypergonadism can be an intensive process as it is difficult to lower the hormone levels as compared to increasing them. Your treatment options will greatly depend on the underlying cause, your age as well as your general health.

Your treatment options will include: 

  • Hormonal therapy

  • Surgical intervention ​​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialized clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.
 
The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.
 
The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatments' costs and authorize admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies allow. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.​
Your doctor and or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose or severe reaction please contact the Pharmacy Service at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.​
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The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.