How is congenital adrenal hyperplasia treated (CAH)?

How is congenital adrenal hyperplasia treated (CAH)?

Treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia depends on the type of CAH you have and how severe your symptoms are. There is no cure for CAH, but many people find symptom relief with medications.

Doctors prescribe several types of medications, including salt supplements and steroids, to people living with classic CAH. Your doctor monitors your condition with regular blood tests to check hormone levels.

If classic CAH causes genital abnormalities, surgery two to six months after birth can correct the appearance of external genitalia. In some cases, it may be appropriate to delay surgery for several years.

People living with nonclassic CAH who have very mild or no symptoms may not need treatment. For some, medications like steroids or fertility drugs improve symptoms.