Human Growth Hormone: What Is It and What Are the Symptoms of Its Deficiency?

Growth hormone is a type of protein that stimulates growth, cell production, and regeneration in humans and other animals. Scientifically known as "somatotropin," this hormone plays a crucial role in the growth of the body, particularly during childhood and adolescence. In humans, growth hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain, contributing to the development and growth of the body during childhood. However, sometimes the body may secrete insufficient amounts of growth hormone, leading to developmental issues such as short stature.

Growth hormone treatment is prescribed by doctors for children. It is not used for treating short stature in adults. Since growth plates in adults are closed, hormone therapy does not contribute to increased height. If you are considering such a treatment method or height-increasing pills, the most accurate information can be obtained from your specialist doctor.

Our company does not provide growth hormone treatment; we only perform limb lengthening surgery under the supervision of our expert doctor.

Symptoms of Growth Hormone Deficiency 

Growth hormone deficiency in children can manifest itself through various symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Short Stature: The most common symptom. The child is shorter than their peers and falls below the expected growth rates on growth charts.
• Slow Development: The child's body proportions, facial features, and dental development may be slower than typical for their age.
• Tendency to be Overweight: An increase in body fat and a decrease in muscle mass can lead to a tendency to appear overweight.
• Delayed Puberty: Children with growth hormone deficiency may experience delayed entry into puberty, or their puberty may last longer.
• Decreased Energy Levels and Weakness: There can be a decrease in general energy levels and a reduction in stamina.
• Social and Emotional Problems: Lack of self-confidence, social withdrawal, and negative feelings when compared to peers.

These symptoms can vary from child to child and can be confused with other health conditions. If growth hormone deficiency is suspected, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Specialists can provide accurate diagnoses through appropriate tests and evaluations and, if necessary, prepare a treatment plan. Growth hormone treatment in children is only prescribed by a doctor. Incorrect or excessive use of this method can lead to other health problems, so it is important for parents to proceed with the process in consultation with a specialist doctor.

Does Growth Hormone Treatment Increase Height in Adults?

Growth hormone treatment or height-increasing pills have no effect on the height of adults. The primary reason for this is the closure of growth plates in the body, which occurs at the end of puberty. The closure of growth plates means that it is not possible for an individual to naturally increase their height. In short, changing one's diet, starting to exercise, or resorting to medical methods like medications have no effect on height. Uninformed use of drugs or hormone treatments can also cause other health problems. Therefore, it is very important to consult with a specialist doctor before resorting to such methods.

What Should Be Done for Height Increase in Adults? 

As mentioned above, unfortunately, it is not possible for adults to increase their height through natural ways. After the growth plates have closed, no vitamin, food, or medicine contributes to height increase. At this point, some people may resort to medications, but not only are these drugs ineffective, but they can also have negative health effects. Therefore, it is necessary to consult and get information from a doctor before using them.   

The only possible way for height increase in adults is through limb lengthening surgery. This surgery is a serious surgical operation and can result in an increase in height ranging from 5cm to 15cm, although the exact amount possible varies from person to person and is determined after doctor's examinations. It's also determined after medical evaluations whether individuals are suitable candidates for this surgery.

Our patient shown in the image above achieved a total increase of 13cm in height, reaching 179cm, through two surgeries. For those curious about the process of height increase, you can check out our interview or follow the details of the surgery process on our YouTube channel. For detailed information about the surgery process, you can directly contact our patient representatives.