Low growth hormone, also known as growth hormone deficiency (GHD), is a condition where the body does not produce enough growth hormone. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. It plays a crucial role during childhood for attaining normal height. Growth hormone also continues to have essential functions during adulthood.
Some key facts about low growth hormone:
- It is estimated to affect 1 in 4,000 to 10,000 people. The condition can be acquired or present from birth.
- Common symptoms in children include slowed growth and short stature compared to peers. Adults may experience decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, fatigue, poor concentration, etc.
- Blood tests checking IGF-1 and growth hormone levels after stimulation tests help diagnose the disorder.
- Treatment typically involves daily growth hormone injections to replace the inadequate amounts. Dosage depends on factors like age, height, weight, etc.
Now you may wonder - how does low growth hormone actually impact the body? Well, growth hormone stimulates the liver to produce
insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). This hormone then goes on to exert effects on virtually every cell and tissue in the body. So in deficiency states, vital biological processes are affected.
For instance, in kids IGF-1 promotes bone growth, protein synthesis leading to muscle mass buildup, and mobilization of fat stores for energy production. But without enough growth hormone, all these functions are impaired, translating into poor growth.
In adults, persistently low IGF-1 causes issues maintaining strength, exercise capacity, weight management, heart function, etc. It also negatively impacts general well-being - many describe feeling abnormally drained or having difficulty handling stress after routine activities.
The good news is GHD is very treatable! Getting an accurate diagnosis and starting growth hormone replacement helps most people achieve substantial improvements in symptoms and quality of life. Though lifelong treatment may be necessary, the pros generally outweigh the hassles of daily injections.
So in a nutshell, growth hormone deficiency hinders vital processes needed for physical and mental health. But thankfully specialists can effectively guide patients through the condition. My advice is to promptly consult an
endocrinologist at Harmonize Wellness Clinic in case of suspected GHD - improving health is worth it!