Am I Past My Growth Spur? Could It Be HGH Deficiency?
I am a 22-year-old male standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing 155 pounds. I've been contemplating whether my growth plates have fully fused at this stage in my life. Lately, I've also suspected that I might be experiencing a deficiency in human growth hormone (HGH). Throughout my childhood, I was consistently smaller than my peers, particularly in contrast to my family members. The shortest male relative on either side of my family is 5 feet 8 inches, while the majority are over 6 feet tall, with some cousins reaching nearly 6 feet 4 inches. People often mistake my age, frequently thinking I’m younger than 15 due to my youthful appearance. My research indicates that HGH deficiency can lead to features that appear less developed and a shorter height. Additionally, I've noticed a few other issues, including excessively dry skin, trouble gaining muscle mass, and some mild hair thinning—none of which are common in my family. I'm curious to know if my growth plates are indeed closed (I suspect they are) and whether, if I were to pursue HGH treatment, it might positively impact my height, facial aesthetics, or ability to build muscle. I believe the muscle-building aspect might offer some advantage at least.
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 3:20:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concern about growth and potential HGH deficiency is understandable, especially considering your height relative to family members. While it’s common to wonder about growth after the age of 22, it's important to know that most males experience the majority of their growth during their teenage years, and growth plates typically close by the end of puberty (usually between 18-21 years of age).
Key points to consider:
- Growth Plate Status: By age 22, it is very likely that your growth plates have fused, which means your height is unlikely to increase further naturally.
- HGH Deficiency Signs: While your concerns about being shorter than peers and other physical traits may seem to align with HGH deficiency, diagnosing this condition requires specific tests. The symptoms you mentioned—dry skin, muscle mass challenges, and hair thinning—can arise from several factors including but not limited to hormonal imbalances, nutrition, and overall health.
- HGH Treatment: If HGH deficiency were confirmed, treatment could potentially help address some aspects of muscle mass and developmental concerns. However, using HGH without a medical necessity can lead to significant side effects and ethical issues.
Next Steps:
- Consider Professional Testing: It’s advisable to consult with an endocrinologist for comprehensive hormone level testing (including HGH) and possibly an assessment of your growth plates through imaging if warranted.
- Focus on Nutrition and Fitness: Concentrate on a balanced diet rich in nutrients and include strength-training exercises in your routine, which can support muscle growth and overall health. Aim for protein-rich foods, healthy fats, and regular physical activity.
- Hydration and Skin Care: Address dry skin by ensuring adequate hydration and consider using moisturizers that suit your skin type. This can also help with the overall appearance.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your physical symptoms to discuss with a healthcare provider if needed. Following these monitored symptoms can guide any future evaluations.
It’s natural to feel concerned about your growth and development; focus on what you can control now with lifestyle choices and keep an open line of communication with medical professionals for further support. Let me know if you have more questions!
Related Questions
Concerns After Blood Draw and Bandage Mishap
I’m a 26-year-old male who recently had some blood drawn, and shortly after leaving the lab, I noticed that the bandage was peeling away. Approximately ten minutes later, it was only partially attached, and I was apprehensive about contacting the area with my unclean hands, so I ended up removing it completely. After that, I needed to take a bus and walk back home. Fortunately, nothing had come into contact with the puncture site. It appeared to be nearly finished bleeding when the bandage fell off; no blood was pooling, just a small amount of fresh blood. Once I arrived home, I sanitized the area and applied a new bandage. However, I'm worried: did I expose myself to a significant risk of infection by allowing my skin to be uncovered while traveling around in public? Thank you for any advice!
Ear Issues Linked to Coordination Challenges
Hello everyone, Recently, I’ve been dealing with a sensation of blockage in one of my ears. Over the past few weeks, this has resulted in decreased hearing from that side and a persistent feeling of pressure affecting both my ear and the left side of my head. A couple of weeks ago, I began using olive oil drops to alleviate the blockage, and this Tuesday, I visited a clinic for ear cleaning. There, they confirmed that my ear was indeed obstructed and tried to clear it as thoroughly as possible. They indicated that about 90% of the blockage was removed, and I’ve been advised to return next Wednesday for a follow-up cleaning to address the remaining buildup. However, since that appointment, my symptoms seem to have worsened. The pressure is still present, but I’ve also started to notice difficulties with my coordination. While at the gym tonight, I almost sustained injury during bench pressing light weights (less than 300 lbs), struggling to maintain control and striking the weight against the apparatus. Additionally, I’ve stumbled twice in the last two days. Is this a typical reaction following an ear cleaning? Should I carry on with my usual activities while being extra cautious until my next appointment next week? I apologize if this seems like a trivial question. I thought it might be more appropriate to seek advice here rather than occupying a doctor's time unnecessarily.
Concerns Following Occupational Cancer Screening as a Firefighter
Greetings! I'm a 32-year-old woman, standing at 56 inches and weighing 140 pounds. I don't smoke or use any tobacco products, maintain a fairly healthy diet, exercise four times each week, and drink socially. My medical regimen includes Adderall 20 XR, which I have been taking for nearly a decade to manage ADHD, as well as Gabapentin 300 mg—a more recent addition due to troubling night sweats. I've dedicated almost 8 years of my life to firefighting. Recently, within the past year, I experienced intense night sweats that soak my bedding and hair, coupled with a flushing rash triggered by heat or direct sunlight exposure. Additionally, I've noticed a strong sensitivity to cold temperatures, and my feet often turn cyanotic when they get particularly chilly. For some time now, I've sought answers regarding my symptoms from my primary care physician and a dermatologist. So far, the explanation I've received is that I might be dealing with a sun allergy and simply overheat at night, despite undergoing several tests that have yielded normal results. Last week, my fire department offered an occupational cancer screening for firefighters, but I was devastated to learn that my results were abnormal. The most alarming finding was a 3.83 cm mass on my spleen, along with nodules on my thyroid and an elevated white blood cell count. The blood work results indicated the following abnormalities: - Elevated white blood cell count, with a normal range being 6-10 - Epithelial cells exceeding 10, which is considered abnormal - WBC esterase showing a +1 result - Low alkaline phosphatase at 37 - High iron levels at 182 The screening suggested that I undergo a CT scan, which I am currently working on scheduling, though it might take a few weeks to arrange. In the meantime, I’m searching for insights into what these findings could mean, as I feel anxious about the implications of the mass on my spleen. Thank you for any guidance you can provide!
Clarifying Clitoral Contact During Pap Tests
Female, 42 years old, standing at 5 feet tall and weighing 110 pounds, without any ongoing medications, a non-smoker, and has no health concerns. In my experience, during every PAP smear, my physician has made contact with my clitoris beforehand. Is this procedure merely an initial step in parting the labia prior to the insertion of the speculum?
GUIDANCE ON TAPERING PREDNISONE - 10mg Protocol
I am a 41-year-old woman, weighing 125 pounds at a height of 5’7”, currently residing in Hawaii, USA. I have been diagnosed with both Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Currently, my medication regimen includes 10mg of prednisone, along with ibuprofen at 800mg, gabapentin at 600mg, and hydroxychloroquine at 300mg. For the past eight weeks, I have been on a 10mg dose of prednisone in response to a severe flare-up that hasn’t been properly controlled. I was supposed to begin tapering off after six weeks; however, I did not receive any guidance regarding how to do this safely, especially after being on the medication for a prolonged period. I have recently relocated and have a scheduled appointment with my new rheumatologist in a few weeks, but my previous doctor has not replied to my inquiries. I would greatly appreciate any advice or support from this community. Thank you!