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Signs of HGH Deficiency

May 25, 2011 | By Erica Roth

HGH, or human growth hormone, is produced by your pituitary gland. The pituitary gland may be tiny, only the size of a dime, but the production and release of HGH into your bloodstream is an extremely important function. If you are diagnosed with an HGH deficiency, sometimes referred to as GHD or growth hormone deficiency, your physical development and emotional health can be adversely affected. HGH deficiencies can be corrected with supplemental hormones.

Short Stature

Short stature is perhaps the most recognizable sign of an HGH deficiency in children. Kids who are not on the height charts at all according to their chronological age and grow less than 2 inches a year may exhibit symptoms of a growth hormone disorder. Children who develop normally usually grow between 2 and 2.5 inches yearly. Children who have abnormally low levels of HGH may also show delayed body development in terms of entering puberty, and might also be very late in cutting teeth. Signs of HGH deficiency are not usually visible until the toddler years, around age 2 to 3.

Low Energy

If you are suffering from a condition associated with low levels of HGH, you may find yourself lacking energy, both mentally and physically. Low energy can stem not only from a lack of growth hormone, but also hypogonadism, a condition in which your testosterone levels are lagging. Low testosterone can lead to a decreased sex drive. Emotionally you may feel depressed, unmotivated and uninterested in hobbies and activities that used to excite you.

Body Shape Changes

Low muscle tone is an outward symptom consistent with some people who have GHD. Obesity is also likely in addition to low muscle tone and possible muscle weakness. Adults as well as children can suffer from HGH deficiency, and may begin to lose muscle mass and gain weight. The majority of the extra poundage in adults centers around the midsection; the excess fat may accumulate in the face or abdominal area in children.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are performed to determine if you have an HGH deficiency. Tests that are commonly performed to look for signs of growth hormone abnormalities are the IGF-1, or insulin-like growth factor, as well as tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones and growth hormones. Thyroid testing is important because low thyroid hormone levels may mimic an HGH deficiency when in fact your HGH level may be fine. Normal ranges of all of your hormones vary according to your age and gender; speak to your doctor about specific numbers if you are concerned about your test results.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: May 25, 2011

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