Growth hormone (GH) is an important hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in growth and development, especially during childhood and adolescence.
As the name suggests, low growth hormone refers to having abnormally low levels of this hormone. This condition may be present from birth or develop later in life from injury or disease affecting the pituitary gland.
Some common symptoms of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) include:
In children, the key sign is slowed or stunted growth and short stature compared to peers. Adults may feel persistent lethargy, brain fog, and impacts on body composition.
Low GH has several potential causes:
Genetic conditions like Turner syndrome or Prader-Willi syndrome can also impair growth hormone secretion, as can inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
In many cases, no specific cause is found - this is termed idiopathic GHD. The risk tends to increase with age.
If low GH is suspected, blood tests of IGF-1 and GH levels can help confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes the doctor may order MRI scans of the brain to visualize the pituitary.
The main treatment is synthetic growth hormone injections to restore normal levels. Getting treatment early leads to better growth outcomes. Children on GH therapy are monitored periodically to ensure proper dosing as they grow.
Lifestyle measures like healthy nutrition, exercise, and stress reduction provide complementary benefits. Searching for an underlying condition causing low GH is also important.
At Vitality Hormone Center clinic, our endocrinologists specialize in detecting and treating growth disorders using state-of-the-art diagnostic tests and GH treatment protocols tailored to each patient's needs. With early intervention, we can help patients reach their full height and health potential.