At diagnosis, the clinical features of acromegaly vary depending on the severity of the condition. The most common clinical features include enlarged hands and feet, enlarged facial features such as a protruding jaw, increased body size and weight, abnormal sweating, increased body hair, and altered voice.
The physical changes associated with acromegaly may be subtle and may be overlooked by the patient and healthcare providers. A patient may be diagnosed with acromegaly when they experience symptoms such as headaches, vision problems such as blurred vision and double vision, fatigue, joint stiffness, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other common clinical features at diagnosis of acromegaly include: an enlarged tongue, enlargement of the forehead, increased acne, deepening of the voice, enlargement of the nose, enlarged lips, and increased facial hair. Patients may also experience changes in their mental health, including increased anxiety, depression, and irritability.
Additionally, acromegaly can lead to the development of other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Patients may also experience an increase in the risk of developing cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
It is important for patients to see their doctor if they experience any of the clinical features associated with acromegaly as early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of long-term complications.