Growth hormone is a natural substance made by the pituitary gland. This small gland sits at the base of your brain. Growth hormone helps children grow taller and supports healthy body functions in adults. Many people ask, “What does growth hormone do?” It helps control body growth, muscle strength, and how your body uses food for energy. Sometimes, people may have a problem called growth hormone deficiency. This means their body does not make enough growth hormone. In such cases, doctors may suggest growth hormone therapy or growth hormone injections to help.
Functions of Growth Hormone in the Body
Growth hormone plays many important roles. For example, it helps children grow and develop. In adults, it keeps bones and muscles strong. It also helps your body use fat for energy. Because of these roles, growth hormone is vital for good health. Here are some key functions:
Supports height and bone growth in children
Helps build and keep muscle mass
Regulates how your body uses fat and sugar
Boosts energy and helps with exercise recovery
Supports heart health and brain function
Additionally, growth hormone helps your body repair tissues. It also helps keep your skin healthy. Without enough growth hormone, many body systems may not work well.
Causes and Symptoms of Growth Hormone Deficiency
Sometimes, the pituitary gland does not make enough growth hormone. This is called growth hormone deficiency. There are several reasons why this can happen. For instance, a person may be born with it. Or, it can develop later due to injury, tumor, or certain diseases. In rare cases, hormone imbalance or brain surgery can also cause this problem.
Common symptoms in children include:
Slow growth or short height compared to others
Chubby body build
Delayed puberty
In adults, symptoms may be different. For example, adults may notice:
Low energy or tiredness
Loss of muscle strength
Increased body fat, especially around the waist
Weak bones
Feeling sad or anxious
However, these symptoms can also be caused by other health issues. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor for proper testing.
How is Growth Hormone Deficiency Diagnosed?
Doctors use several steps to diagnose growth hormone deficiency. First, they ask about your health history and symptoms. Next, they may check your height and weight. Blood tests are often needed to measure hormone levels. Sometimes, doctors use special tests to see how your body reacts to certain medicines. These tests help show if your pituitary gland is making enough growth hormone.
In addition, doctors may use imaging tests, such as MRI scans, to look at the pituitary gland. This helps find any tumors or injuries. According to the CDC and other experts, early diagnosis is important for the best results.
Treatment Options for Growth Hormone Deficiency
If you have growth hormone deficiency, your doctor may suggest growth hormone therapy. This usually means getting growth hormone injections. These shots are given under the skin, often once a day. Children and adults can both benefit from this treatment. With proper therapy, children can grow taller, and adults may feel stronger and more energetic.
Here are some key points about treatment:
Treatment is safe when done under a doctor’s care
Regular check-ups are needed to adjust the dose
Side effects are rare but may include joint pain or swelling
Growth hormone therapy is available in many clinics, including growth hormone treatment in major cities
Always talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment. They will help decide what is best for you.
Lifestyle Tips and Prevention
While some causes of growth hormone deficiency cannot be prevented, healthy habits can support your body. For instance, eating a balanced diet helps your body work well. Getting enough sleep is also important, as growth hormone is released during deep sleep. Regular exercise can boost your mood and help keep your muscles strong.
Here are some simple tips:
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night
Stay active with daily exercise
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
See your doctor for regular check-ups
Although you cannot always prevent hormone imbalance, these steps can help you stay healthy. If you notice signs of growth hormone deficiency, seek medical advice early.
Conclusion
In summary, growth hormone is vital for growth and health. Deficiency can cause many problems, but early diagnosis and treatment can help. If you have concerns about growth hormone or hormone imbalance, consult an endocrinologist for personalized advice on growth hormone concerns.
Don’t let growth concerns go unnoticed — early care makes all the difference.
Consult Saigal Hospital endocrinology experts today for accurate testing and a personalized plan for healthy growth and hormone balance.