Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder that develops slowly in adulthood. Triggered by excess growth hormone, it enlarges the hands, feet, and facial bones. Subtle physical changes often go unnoticed for years, making early diagnosis crucial. Without treatment, it can lead to serious complications affecting the heart, metabolism, and overall health.
What are the symptoms?
Acromegaly is often hard to detect early. Common signs include enlarged hands and feet, a protruding jaw, thicker lips, a wider nose, and more spaced teeth. Patients may also experience oily skin, skin tags, fatigue, joint pain, snoring, headaches, vision problems, menstrual irregularities in women, and sexual dysfunction in men.
Why does this disease occur?
The condition arises when the pituitary gland produces excess growth hormone (GH). Most cases result from benign pituitary tumors. In rare cases, tumors in organs such as the lungs or pancreas release growth hormone–releasing hormone (GH-RH), causing the pituitary gland to overproduce growth hormone.
Who is at risk of this disease?
People with a rare genetic disorder called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN 1) face a higher risk. Family history of pituitary or hormone-producing tumors also increases susceptibility. The disorder can affect both men and women, typically appearing in middle adulthood.
How is this disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of tests:
- IGF-1 blood test to measure hormone levels
- Growth hormone suppression test after glucose intake
- MRI scans to locate pituitary tumors
- If no pituitary tumor is found, additional imaging is done to identify other sources of hormone overproduction.
What are the possible complications?
Untreated acromegaly can trigger serious health issues, including:
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart enlargement and failure
- Osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome
- Sleep apnea and vision loss
- Thyroid enlargement
- Increased risk of colon polyps and cancer
What is the treatment?
Treatment focuses on reducing GH and IGF-1 levels. Options include:
- Surgery to remove pituitary tumors
- Medications such as somatostatin analogues, dopamine agonists, or GH blockers
- Radiation therapy, if tumors cannot be fully removed
Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor hormone levels and control complications.
How can you take care of yourself at home?
- Track changes in hands, feet, or facial features
- Control blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol
- Follow a balanced diet and exercise plan
- Use sleep apnea devices if prescribed
- Attend all medical appointments and report new symptoms promptly
How can this disease be prevented?
Acromegaly cannot be prevented, as it usually results from tumors. However, early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications.
When should you see a doctor?
Seek medical attention if you notice:
- Enlarged hands, feet, or facial features
- Persistent headaches or vision changes
- Loud snoring or daytime fatigue
- Gradual changes when comparing old and recent photos
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is acromegaly reversible?
Treatment can normalize hormone levels and stop disease progression, but bone enlargement may not fully reverse.
Q2. Is acromegaly dangerous?
Yes. Untreated acromegaly can cause serious complications such as heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes, and early death. Timely treatment greatly improves outcomes.
Important Note: This information is for awareness only. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
