There are times when growth hormone therapy becomes necessary to treat growth hormone deficiency in young children, particularly during their pre-puberty period.

The demand for growth hormone therapy has been increasing tremendously in recent years, and many parents are willing to do anything to make their children grow taller. Although these treatments are effective in many cases, there are significant risks associated with growth hormone therapy in young patients that parents must be aware of.

Understanding Growth Hormone Therapy

Growth hormone therapy involves injecting synthetic growth hormones into children who have growth hormone deficiency.

Growth hormone deficiency is a condition in which the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, does not produce enough growth hormones that are necessary for body growth. This deficiency can lead to stunted growth, causing children to be shorter than the average growth for their age.

Growth hormone therapy can be used to replace the missing growth hormone and stimulate growth, increasing the child’s height and bone density.

Risks Associated with Growth Hormone Therapy

While growth hormone therapy is generally safe, there are risks when these hormones are given in excess, causing abnormal growth rates in children treated with growth hormone.

Here are some of the risks and complications associated with growth hormone therapy in young patients:.

1. Diabetes

People who take human growth hormone (HGH) often develop diabetes, which requires ongoing treatment. This is especially the case for those who have a preexisting risk for the condition.

Those who have a family history of diabetes or pre-diabetes may have this risk assessed before they decide to take HGH.

2. Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a potential complication of HGH therapy. This is because HGH promotes growth of the bones and organs, as well as increasing blood flow to all parts of the body.

This can increase blood pressure which, if left unchecked, can lead to a range of other health problems over time.

3. Arthritis

HGH is known to exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis in some patients, and can therefore lead to increased pain and a decreased quality of life in these individuals.

4. Cardiovascular disease

Excessive levels of human growth hormone can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Studies have shown that people with high levels of HGH were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease than those with normal or low levels of the hormone.

5. Growth of cancerous cells

In rare cases, growth hormone therapy may stimulate the growth of cancerous cells in the body. This is particularly true if an individual with a cancer history undergoes HGH therapy to treat growth hormone deficiency.

For this reason, HGH isn’t recommended for individuals who have a family history of cancer or who have had cancer themselves.

6. Increased Inter-cranial Pressure

The use of HGH can cause excess pressure in the brain resulting in severe headaches and even blindness. This is due to the excess fluid around the brain and may require medical intervention.

7. Hypothyroidism

Growth hormone therapy can cause the thyroid gland to produce less thyroid hormone, which can result in a condition called hypothyroidism. This condition can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

8. Skin concerns

Individuals taking HGH may experience changes to the look and feel of their skin. Skin problems such as acne, darkening or thickening of the skin, and excessive sweating may occur.

9. Increased risk of infection

HGH can suppress the immune system, which can lead to increased risk of infections. Individuals undergoing HGH therapy should be monitored closely to ensure that they do not develop any infections or illnesses.

10. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Individuals taking HGH may experience carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition occurs due to inflammation of the nerves in the wrist resulting in pain and decreased mobility.

Conclusion

Growth hormone therapy has been a significant medical advancement that has helped many children with growth hormone deficiencies to reach their growth potential.

However, the risks associated with this therapy must be carefully considered and weighed before treatment. Parents and patients undergoing HGH therapy should be monitored closely by their healthcare providers to avoid any potential complications that may arise.

It’s always recommended that patients discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider that may arise during the therapy.