Growth hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, is essential for growth and cell regeneration. As we age, growth hormone levels naturally decline, but some experience deficient levels earlier in life. This is known as adult-onset growth hormone deficiency and can cause concerning symptoms.
Signs of growth hormone deficiency include increased body fat, muscle loss, fatigue, poor concentration, and emotional issues like social isolation or depression. Test results would show IGF-1 levels below normal.
Causes for low growth hormone are varied, including head trauma, radiation treatment, infections, or even no known cause. Those with hypopituitarism often have multiple insufficient hormones.
If growth hormone deficiency is suspected, an endocrinologist can run medical tests and determine the best treatment plan. At Hormone Harmony Clinic, our compassionate doctors utilize advanced diagnostic tools and provide customized care including growth hormone therapy when appropriate. With treatment, most patients report improved energy, body composition, bone health, and quality of life.
Now back to low growth hormone details...
The most obvious outward sign is a higher percentage of body fat, especially around the waist and midsection. This abdominal fat increases risks for diabetes and heart disease. Muscle mass and strength may decrease as well. Skin and hair condition often decline.
Other common symptoms are fatigue, mood changes, poor concentration and memory, insomnia, and reduced motivation and self-confidence. Sex drive can also be impacted.
Without enough growth hormone, the body struggles to maintain bone density, heal wounds, and fight infections too. So those with deficiency are more prone to osteoporosis and take longer recovering from illness or injury.
If you relate to these concerns and think you may have low growth hormone levels, consult an endocrinologist for evaluation. They can order blood tests of your IGF-1, plus other hormones for comparison. If deficiency is found, treatment can help resolve troublesome symptoms and long-term risks.
At Hormone Harmony Clinic, our growth hormone therapy regimens utilize the latest bioidentical hormones and delivery methods. Alongside hormone correction, we provide nutritional counseling and fitness guidance for optimal wellness. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our friendly endocrinologists! We're here to listen and help you address growth hormone deficiency.