Low growth hormone

What is low growth hormone?

Low growth hormone (GH), also called growth hormone deficiency (GHD), occurs when the pituitary gland in the brain does not make enough GH. GH is an anabolic hormone essential for growth, cell reproduction and regeneration, and metabolism. It works by stimulating the liver to make another hormone called insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).

Some common signs and symptoms of low GH include:

• Poor bone density and muscle wastage
• Fat accumulation on the face and body
• Increased triglycerides and "bad" LDL cholesterol
• Growth failure in children (short stature, slow growth rate)
• Low energy levels and overall fatigue
• Low mood and emotional issues like anxiety and depression

Testing for low GH is usually done through IGF-1 levels in the blood. You may also have tests of your blood sugar regulation, bone density, cholesterol, thyroid, and vitamin levels.

If you're diagnosed with an adult GH deficiency, treatment can involve regular growth hormone injections. This requires a prescription from a specialist endocrine doctor, such as an endocrinologist or hormone doctor.

We've helped hundreds of patients optimize their hormone levels and regain vitality. Reach out to Optimal Hormone Solutions today to learn more about how growth hormone therapy can help if you're struggling with low energy and motivation. Our qualified medical team can identify any hormonal trouble spots and create a personalized treatment plan that finally helps you feel healthy and well energized.

There are a few causes of low GH:

• In adults - Hypothalamic or pituitary disease like tumors can hamper the brain's regulation of GH. Head trauma and certain brain surgeries pose risk too.
• In children - Low GH is very often an idiopathic cause where there is no known reason. But congenital issues, central nervous system damage, treatment side effects, poor nutrition, and certain genetic syndromes can trigger GHD.

If you think your child might have GH deficiency, look for these key signs:

• Extremely slow weight and length growth rate from the first months of life
• Premature birth
• Low blood sugar episodes in first few days after birth
• Genetic or chromosomal abnormality

Who is most at risk for growth hormone deficiency? Those with a family history of endocrine issues are at slightly higher risk. Acquired conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, anemia, Cushing's disease, kidney disease, or cancer treatment radiotherapy are often tied to adult GHD. For children, premature birth or difficult labor and delivery pose the highest risk.

In summary, growth hormone is vital for childhood development, adult health and metabolism. Low GH can stem from congenital, genetic, or acquired issues. It leads to low energy, muscle loss, poor growth, and emotional issues. Diagnosis is based on blood IGF-1 with other hormone tests. Treatment revolves around GH replacement therapy through injections, often supported by an endocrinologist. If your lack energy, strength, and stamina despite a health lifestyle, have your hormone levels checked!

Hope this gives helpful overview of growth hormone deficiency signs, symptoms and solutions. Let me know if you have any other questions!