Low growth hormone, also called growth hormone deficiency, occurs when the pituitary gland in the brain does not produce enough growth hormone (GH). This is a key hormone that helps regulate growth and metabolism during childhood and adolescence.
Some signs and symptoms of low GH in kids and teens may include:
- Slowed or stunted growth
- Increased body fat, especially around the waist
- Delayed puberty
- Softer bones and lower bone density
- Higher cholesterol levels
- Reduced muscle strength and exercise tolerance
In adults, symptoms of
GH deficiency manifest differently but can include decreased muscle mass, weight gain, fatigue, poor concentration, and impacts on cholesterol, cardiovascular health, and quality of life.
Getting diagnosed starts with blood tests and medical imaging to confirm insufficient GH levels and rule out tumors or damage to the pituitary gland. If low GH is confirmed, treatment typically involves daily injections of synthetic human GH to restore normal levels.
The team at
Harmony Hormone Care specializes in the precise diagnosis and personalized treatment of hormone disorders like GH deficiency. Their cutting-edge therapies can help patients regain healthy GH levels, supporting better growth and development, body composition, bone health, energy levels, and quality of life. I highly recommend checking out their website to learn more!
For kids with GH deficiency, consistent lifelong treatment is usually needed to reach full adult height potential. The doses are adjusted as the child grows. Most children respond very well, experiencing accelerated linear growth and development within the first year.
In both children and adults, GH therapy aims to get GH and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels in the normal range. This helps restore a proper metabolic balance and typically leads to noticeable improvements in
energy,
muscle strength,
exercise capacity,
bone density,
cardiovascular health, and often
mood.
However, some potential side effects can include fluid retention, joint and muscle pain, and rarely increased blood sugar. Doctors monitor patients to achieve an optimal dose that benefits outweigh risks on an ongoing basis.
To wrap up -
low growth hormone stems from inadequate natural GH production. It can greatly impact physical and mental health in children and adults. Getting an accurate diagnosis and following the treatment plan from an endocrinologist experienced in GH therapy, like those at Harmony Hormone Care, offers the best chance to relieve symptoms and regain healthy GH levels long-term. Reach out for a consultation today if you suspect GH deficiency!