What is Low Growth Hormone?
Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone released from the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration. Low growth hormone, also called growth hormone deficiency, occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce enough GH.
Causes - Damage or injury to the pituitary gland - Genetic mutations affecting GH production or release - Tumors in or near the pituitary gland - Radiation or surgery affecting the pituitary - Inflammatory diseases like meningitis
Symptoms - Slowed or stunted growth in children - Increased body fat, especially around the waist in adults - Decreased muscle mass and strength - Higher levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol - Poor bone density - Fatigue and low energy levels - Emotional issues like social isolation, poor self-esteem, or sadness
Diagnosis Doctors may order blood tests to measure IGF-1 and GH levels directly. They may also use MRI scans to visually inspect the pituitary gland for tumors or damage. Comprehensive hormone testing can help rule out issues with other pituitary hormones like ACTH, TSH, and more.
Treatment - HGH injections - Synthetic human growth hormone injections can restore normal levels. These are given daily under the skin. - HGH secretagogues - These medicines help stimulate the pituitary gland to produce more natural HGH. Examples are sermorelin and ipamorelin. - Lifestyle changes - Improving diet, sleep, reducing stress, and increasing activity levels can help optimize natural HGH production.
Untreated, growth hormone deficiency can negatively impact quality of life. But modern medicine offers excellent treatment options to restore hormone levels. By consulting an endocrinologist at Rebalance Hormone Clinic and sticking to a treatment plan, most patients see substantial improvements in energy, body composition, and well-being.