How to Identify Low Human Growth Hormone Levels

Many people would be familiar with Human Growth Hormone (HGH) deficiency in children, but may not be aware that it can also affect adults. The Human Growth Hormone is released from the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain. Adults need sufficient amounts of Human Growth Hormone in order to control levels of body fat and muscle. It is also needed for maintaining proper bone density. There are several symptoms adults should be on the lookout for if they suspect low levels of Human Growth Hormone. Indications of low HGH could be either physical or psychological. People with low Human Growth Hormone may experience both symptom types. Physical symptoms could include low energy and decreased strength and tolerance for exercise. They may also notice a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in weight, especially in the waist area. The affected person may also notice thin and dry skin. The psychological symptoms may include anxiety, depression or sadness that affects social activity. Human Growth Deficiency in adults is recognized as a clinical syndrome. Signs of Human Growth Hormone deficiency may be autoimmune syndromes, early aging, metabolic symptoms, muscular problems, or poor sleep patterns. An autoimmune disorder that could be an indication of low Human Growth Hormone is Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or SLE). Normal Human Growth Hormone Levels are greater than 200 MIU per milliliter. Many SLE patients have levels lower than 100 MIU per milliliter. MIU stands for milli-international unit. People with low Human Growth Hormone may also have a harder time healing their wounds. Human Growth Hormone stimulates collagen production. Collagen sticks wounds together, strengthens weak tissue and gives skin elasticity to help skin or bone wounds heal faster. People with low HGH levels may also suffer from diseases that affect immunity. Two common diseases often associated with low Human Growth Hormone are Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Fibromyalgia. The symptoms may only be similar to those diseases rather than indicating the person has CFS or Fibromyalgia. It is imperative that one discuss their concerns with a medical professional rather than performing a self-diagnosis. Fibromyalgia patients often complain that they have low energy levels; they tend to have other health problems, reduced capacity for exercise, intolerance to cold temperatures, and Dysthemia. Dysthemia is a milder, but recurring form of depression. Fibromyalgia patients also have a decreased amount of lean body mass. One risk factor for low levels of Human Growth Hormone is hypopituitarism. Hypopituitarism happens when the pituitary gland under-performs in any way. Anyone who suspects a Human Growth Hormone deficiency should be sure to seek counsel from a medical professional.