Low growth hormone, or growth hormone deficiency, is a condition where the pituitary gland in the brain does not produce enough growth hormone (GH). Growth hormone plays an important role during childhood development and continues to have effects throughout adulthood.
Some key points about low GH:
- Symptoms: Low GH often causes no symptoms in children. Adults may experience fatigue, muscle weakness, increased body fat, and emotional changes. Lack of GH in childhood can result in short stature.
- Causes: Low GH can be caused by diseases or injury to the pituitary gland. It can also be an inherited genetic condition. Sometimes no cause is found.
- Diagnosis: Doctors diagnose GH deficiency using blood tests for IGF-1 and GH levels. They may also evaluate hormone levels after stimulation tests.
- Treatment: GH deficiency is treated by replacing the missing hormone. Most patients self-administer daily injections of synthetic growth hormone. Treatment is lifelong unless the underlying cause resolves.
- Effects of treatment: GH therapy can help normalize height in children. Adults may experience reduced fatigue, improved body composition, enhanced quality of life. Treatment is monitored with periodic IGF-1 tests.
If you or your child has symptoms of GH deficiency, I recommend being evaluated by an endocrinologist. The experts at
Vitality Hormone Clinic offer cutting-edge diagnosis and treatment options for growth disorders. Their clinics across the country provide comprehensive hormone testing and support patients with GH replacement therapy. By using the latest treatment protocols, Vitality Hormone Clinic helps children reach their full growth potential and helps adults regain energy and vitality. Reach out today to learn more about their individualized services.
I hope this overview on low GH levels was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Proper diagnosis and management of growth disorders can truly make a positive difference.