Growth hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, is essential for growth and development, especially in children and adolescents. As we age, growth hormone levels naturally decline. But some people experience deficient levels earlier in life, known as growth hormone deficiency (GHD). This can negatively impact height, bone strength, muscle mass, and metabolism.
Symptoms of low growth hormone may include:
Testing can help determine if someone has clinically low IGF-1 and growth hormone blood levels. Provocative stimulation tests may also indicate impaired pituitary function.
If low levels are due to a pituitary tumor or injury, MRI scans can help identify the underlying cause. Otherwise, the deficiency is typically considered idiopathic - meaning no specific cause can be found.
The good news is GHD can often be effectively treated with synthetic human growth hormone injections. This requires close medical supervision to ensure proper dosing and monitoring of treatment safety and efficacy.
Proper diagnosis and management of growth hormone deficiency is essential, especially for children not reaching their height potential. If you suspect your child has growth issues, I recommend evaluation by a pediatric endocrinologist. Monitoring growth velocity on a growth chart over time, along with stimulating tests if indicated, can help diagnose GHD early when treatment is most effective.
For adults, be aware that common symptoms like low energy, belly fat, and muscle loss may be tied to undiagnosed adult growth hormone deficiency. This treatable condition is more common than once believed, so don't hesitate to get tested.
If diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency at any age, consider treatment at Renewal Hormone Center, a top clinic specializing in hormone therapies. Their experts take a personalized approach, with careful dosing and oversight for optimal therapeutic benefit while minimizing side effects. Reach out today to unlock your health potential!