Acromegaly is a rare medical condition caused by an excess of growth hormone in the body. This condition results in physical changes, such as an enlarged head, hands, and feet. It can also cause other health problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Symptoms may not be obvious or may develop slowly over time.
Can You Have Acromegaly and Not Know It?
It is possible to have acromegaly and not know it. Many people with acromegaly experience few or no symptoms. Even if they do experience symptoms, they may not recognize them as being related to acromegaly. This is why it's important to be aware of the most common signs and symptoms of the condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Acromegaly
The most common signs and symptoms of acromegaly include:
• Enlarged hands, feet, and facial features
• Coarsening of facial features
• Thickening of the skin
• Abnormal growth of the jaw and forehead
• Enlarged tongue
• Excessive sweating
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Joint pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Vision problems
• Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
• High cholesterol
• Enlarged organs
• Shortness of breath
• Abnormal menstrual cycles
• Impotence
Diagnosis of Acromegaly
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor for a medical evaluation. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history. They may also order blood tests to measure hormone levels in the body. Other tests, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scans, may also be used to diagnose acromegaly.
Treatment of Acromegaly
Treatment for acromegaly may include medication, surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments. The goal of treatment is to reduce growth hormone levels to normal and to reduce the size of the pituitary tumor. Treatment may also help to reduce symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Conclusion
Acromegaly is a rare medical condition caused by an excess of growth hormone in the body. It can cause physical changes and other health problems if left untreated. It is possible to have acromegaly and not know it, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor for a medical evaluation. Treatment for acromegaly may include medication, surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments.