Hormone therapy is one way that doctors help children overcome a variety of health conditions. Some children are naturally born with less growth hormone than they need to thrive, while others may benefit from these injections as a way to counteract some of the effects of congenital disorders.
There are also cases when adults may be prescribed growth hormone therapy to address certain concerns. Our specialists in endocrinology can help you or your child make the best decisions for your health; but before you make an appointment, read on to learn more about who needs growth hormone therapy and who might benefit from it.
What Is Growth Hormone Therapy Used to Treat?
Human growth hormone (HGH) influences a person’s stature, and it plays a large role in the natural development of bones and muscles. It is produced in the pituitary gland, a specialized part of the brain that oversees hormone production.
Levels of HGH fluctuate naturally, and they can also be influenced by a variety of genetic factors and congenital conditions. This hormone is most prevalent in puberty, but it plays a significant role throughout life, supporting healthy bones, tissues, and regulating metabolic functions.
Growth hormone therapy can help treat conditions in children, such as:
- Natural HGH deficiency
- Idiopathic short stature
- Prader-Willi syndrome
- Noonan syndrome
- Delayed or non-present development
In adults, growth hormone therapy can treat a deficiency as well. It may also be prescribed for patients with complications related to HIV or short bowel syndrome.
Getting the Right Care
It is important to work with a specialist in endocrinology who can determine whether growth hormone therapy is appropriate for you or your child. They can perform tests to rule out other potential causes of issues and explore all treatment options before deciding on GH injections.
Dr. Steven J. Campbell is a triple-board-certified physician who specializes in hormonal therapy and functional medicine. He and the team at Campbell Foundational Health are always here to help you and your loved ones reach their absolute best state of being.
We provide functional medicine telehealth in Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana.
Please contact us at 919-308-9701, or use our contact page to book a free discovery call.