Acromegaly is a disorder caused by the pituitary gland producing too much Human Growth Hormone. Because of the excessive levels of this hormone, the body and extremities of a patient can become too big. As a result, organs may dramatically expand in size. The most frequent cause of death for those suffering from Acromegaly is cardiomyopathy. It is a condition in which the heart grows too large and ceases to function properly.
Besides, you can consult a top physician at Kims Hospital Kondapur for the same.
Acromegaly typically affects those who are in middle age. It is a rare condition that affects only about four thousand persons per million. The pituitary gland is often affected. Dysfunction is caused by a non cancerous tumor that has grown in the gland.
Know the possible symptoms of Acromegaly
Acromegaly can affect the tissues and bones and causes the growth of these tissues in abnormal ways. For children, Acromegaly can cause gigantism (unusual growth). If a child or young adult is afflicted with too much growth hormone within their body, gigantism may result in their bones growing faster. A few people who have gigantism are 8 feet tall.
Adults who suffer from Acromegaly don’t increase their height but can exhibit the following signs:
- Swollen or expanded body parts such as feet, hands, chest or
- Face changes include an oblique jawline forehead, nose or
- Overly sweaty or oily skin
- The feeling of numbness (also known as “pins and needles” in the hands)
- Joint pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, or spinal cord issues
- Muscle weakness
- Headaches
- Sleep apnea is a condition caused by breathing problems that cause the body’s breathing to slow down for brief intervals during sleep.
- Changes in voice or vision
Diagnosis of Acromegaly
Acromegaly is sometimes difficult to identify, as the excess of growth hormone does not necessarily manifest as symptoms that affect physical appearance. However, if it is suspected to be present, it is easily identified by looking at levels of growth hormones within the body using blood tests.
If the disease is discovered, the patient may be required to undergo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or echocardiograms. In addition, Computerized Tomography (CT) scans and other tests to determine the impact on organs. Additionally, the CT scan may help to determine where tumors are located.
Blood tests: The growth hormone or IGF I blood tests determine various growth hormone levels in your blood.
Imaging tests When blood tests show that you suffer from Acromegaly, your physician will likely suggest an MRI scan. It can determine the extent and the location of the tumor and assist in determining the appropriate treatment.
Is there any treatment for Acromegaly?
However, early-stage Acromegaly may be treatable by using the options above or a procedure that decreases the swelling of the pituitary gland. In general, this procedure is successful in patients with growth hormone levels that are moderately high.
It is also possible to use medication to treat Acromegaly by shrinking the size of tumors and reducing the quantity of growth hormone produced. However, certain medications are not suitable for use because they require injection.
They can also hinder the pancreas’ functions, which could cause additional health issues. Therefore, patients who take medication need strict surveillance.
The prognosis of Acromegaly is contingent on early detection and treatment. The condition requires ongoing medical treatment and follow-up, but patients with the disease diagnosed before age 40 are more likely to have a normal life span.
The earlier treatment is the best way to prevent the development of symptoms that could be life-threatening, such as the loss of heart or liver function.
Surgery
In many instances, surgery can greatly reduce the symptoms of Acromegaly or eliminate the problem. The size and location of the tumor determine the procedure to perform surgery. The surgery aims to eliminate the entire tumor that causes an excessive increase in growth hormone production.
If surgeons can remove all tumor parts, you will not require additional treatment. However, if doctors can remove just the tumor in a small portion, you may require treatment with radiation or medication to control your symptoms and decrease growth hormone production.
Are radiation therapies a successful method to treat Acromegaly?
The treatment of radiation therapy can lower the levels of growth hormones when treatments don’t work. Radiation therapy utilizes specialized equipment to target tumors using radiation beams. This treatment takes time. It might require several treatments and breaks between. It can require several years to fully take effect.
People suffering from Acromegaly will depend on how severe the disease is and how effective treatments the doctor can use. However, many people notice a dramatic improvement in their symptoms following treatment. In addition, the doctors at Kims Hospital Kondapur also suggest radiation therapy.
Conclusion:-
If not addressed, Acromegaly can result in painful and unattractive symptoms. In addition, these issues can seriously impact the patient’s self-image and level of living. Support groups can help people overcome the difficulties they confront due to Acromegaly.
Heart illness and Type 2 diabetes can also reduce the quality of life and can even reduce the length of life. In the worst instances, these conditions could have life-altering effects. Once you notice the symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor. Therefore, you can contact the health representatives at Credihealth.
