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Suggest Signs Of Growth Hormone Deficiency

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Posted on Mon, 12 May 2014
Question: Hi I am just wondering what are some signs of growth hormone deficiency? I just turned 19 and if I have this just wondering if it's to late to catch it so it can still be treated. I am 5'5 my mom is my height and my father is 4 or 5 inches taller than I am and a lot broader. Also I wanted to go see a local endocrinologist but their are none in my area, is their another kind of doctor I can check this out with?
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Answered by Dr. Eric Goldstein (6 hours later)
Brief Answer: it is not something you catch Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for your question. Growth Hormone Deficiency is not something you catch. It is something you either have or you don't. Our final height is typically determined by the genes given to us by our parents. We can expect to fall, on average, somewhere between mom and dad. However, many variations do normally occur. Though an endocrinologist is generally considered an expert when it comes to hormones, your primary care doctor can begin an initial evaluation to determine if you indeed have Growth Hormone Deficiency. This would include bloodwork yo get baseline hormone levels. It would also include an evaluation of your "bone age". This is done by having an x-ray taken of your hand. This x-ray can usually determine if your bone age is less than your actual age, (in which case you can expect to continue growing), or if it is equal to or more than your actual age (in which case you will likely not grow anymore). These tests can be dine by anyone, not only an endocrinologist. The most important thing to remember, is that it is not our height that defines us. We can still succeed in anything we desire, regardless. I recommend you consult with your doctor about your concern. Good luck.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
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Follow up: Dr. Eric Goldstein (13 hours later)
I didnt mean that kind of catch like you would catch a cold, meant if i noticed it asap
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Answered by Dr. Eric Goldstein (1 hour later)
Brief Answer: The answer is the same Detailed Answer: Hi, Ok. I understand now. The answer is the same. Blood work can easily be done, it doesn't take the lab long at all to get the result. A bone age should probably be done as well. An endocrinologist is not necessary for these initial tests. Your primary doctor will be able to help you with this. regards,
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Follow up: Dr. Eric Goldstein (1 hour later)
Yea i know just wanted to clarify haha. But thanks for the answers their apreciated
doctor
Answered by Dr. Eric Goldstein (1 minute later)
Brief Answer: You are welcome Detailed Answer: Thanks for using this service You are very welcome. Anytime.
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Eric Goldstein

Pediatrician

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 1303 Questions

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Suggest Signs Of Growth Hormone Deficiency

Brief Answer: it is not something you catch Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for your question. Growth Hormone Deficiency is not something you catch. It is something you either have or you don't. Our final height is typically determined by the genes given to us by our parents. We can expect to fall, on average, somewhere between mom and dad. However, many variations do normally occur. Though an endocrinologist is generally considered an expert when it comes to hormones, your primary care doctor can begin an initial evaluation to determine if you indeed have Growth Hormone Deficiency. This would include bloodwork yo get baseline hormone levels. It would also include an evaluation of your "bone age". This is done by having an x-ray taken of your hand. This x-ray can usually determine if your bone age is less than your actual age, (in which case you can expect to continue growing), or if it is equal to or more than your actual age (in which case you will likely not grow anymore). These tests can be dine by anyone, not only an endocrinologist. The most important thing to remember, is that it is not our height that defines us. We can still succeed in anything we desire, regardless. I recommend you consult with your doctor about your concern. Good luck.