Human growth hormone (HGH) is crucial for growth, cell reproduction and regeneration. As we age, HGH levels naturally decline, leading to signs of aging and health issues. HGH deficiency has been linked to decreased muscle mass, bone density, skin thickness, energy levels, sexual function and cognitive ability.
Replacing declining HGH levels can help alleviate these deficiency symptoms. HGH therapy involves injections of bioidentical human growth hormone to restore hormones to youthful levels. When combined with lifestyle changes, patients report renewed energy, improved body composition, enhanced skin and hair, better sleep, mood boost, and an overall increase in quality of life.
Below we will explore the details of HGH therapy - who is a candidate, what are the benefits, what to expect, and more. We'll also highlight why Elite Hormone Therapy in Baytown is a trusted hormone clinic to partner with on your wellness journey.
The onset of growth hormone deficiency in adults is gradual, with symptoms worsening over time. Key indicators of declining HGH levels include:
- Decreased muscle mass and strength - Weight gain, increased body fat, especially abdominal fat - Hair loss and thinning - Dry, thinning skin and wrinkles - Bone loss, joint pain, increased risk of fractures - Reduced exercise performance and endurance
- Memory and concentration problems - Mood changes - anxiety, sadness, social isolation - Reduced motivation and self-confidence
- Fatigue, low energy levels - Poor sleep quality - Low sex drive, erectile dysfunction - Slowed healing from injury or illness
If multiple deficiency symptoms are present, HGH testing can confirm if declining levels are to blame. The sooner treatment begins, the more reversal of issues is possible.
HGH injections can benefit men and women whose lab tests confirm a growth hormone deficiency. Ideal candidates include those experiencing several of the above symptoms associated with the natural decline of HGH levels due to aging.
HGH therapy is approved to treat diagnosed deficiency in adults. It should not be used solely for anti-aging benefits or muscle building. Patients must have blood tests confirming their hormone levels are lower than normal to qualify for treatment.
There are some medical conditions that can also contribute to low HGH. Examples include:
Those with confirmed diagnoses resulting in insufficient growth hormone may also qualify for treatment.
HGH shots are contraindicated in pregnancy/nursing, active cancer, diabetes, and those with severe respiratory issues or certain eye conditions. A full medical exam will determine if you are a candidate.
Overall the best candidates for HGH therapy are symptom-free adults looking to proactively fight aging's effects on their bodies. Starting treatment before major health issues set in leads to better long term results.
Diagnosing inhibited growth hormone requires specific blood tests, as levels fluctuate throughout the day based on factors like diet, exercise, sleep and stress. The standard assessment is a serum IGF-1 test, along with a serum growth hormone test measuring stimulated levels.
The IGF-1 test gives a snapshot of growth hormone activity over time by assessing insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). This is the main hormone stimulated by HGH in the body. As HGH declines with age, IGF-1 levels follow.
The serum growth hormone test requires multiple blood draws after ingesting glucose or insulin to stimulate hormone output. Results help establish a baseline to compare to normal ranges.
HGH deficiency is not defined by any single lab test result. Rather, clinical indicators and blood work results together guide diagnosis and treatment decisions. Elite Hormone Therapy' medical team specializes is assessing grey areas on a case by case basis to determine therapy needs.
We provide all required testing to either confirm or rule out inhibited growth hormone as the root cause of deficiency symptoms. Testing services are also open to those simply looking to check their hormone levels proactively for peace of mind.
HGH therapy has shown promise in improving mood and alleviating depression symptoms in adults with growth hormone deficiency. Several studies found depressed patients reported improved mood and energy levels after 6-12 months of HGH treatment, even though it is not an approved or common treatment for depression.
HGH therapy utilizes daily injections to return growth hormone to sufficient levels for improved health and wellbeing. Treatment follows a precise protocol developed and overseen by our experienced medical team.
Below is a general overview of starting growth hormone therapy:
- Comprehensive health analysis - Discussion of symptoms and goals - Physical exam as needed - Review test results - Finalize treatment regimen
- Once approved, the clinic will provide all required medicines or work with your insurance - Most patients start with a lower dose that is titrated up over 6 weeks basd on response - Ongoing monitoring helps optimize your personal dose, duration and timing
- Patients are taught proper injection techniques by a licensed medical professional - HGH shots are small gauge needles for minimized discomfort - Rotating sites helps avoid lumps or skin irritation
- Routine blood tests check hormone levels & treatment efficacy - Follow up visits assess progress on symptoms - Your therapy schedule may be adjusted based on results
HGH therapy requires careful medical supervision for efficacy and safety. Elite Hormone Therapy provides complete oversight along with labs, dosing guidance and teaching for self-injections. We remain available to patients with any questions or concerns throughout treatment.
It's important to have realistic expectations when starting hGH therapy. The benefits develop gradually over months and years of treatment. The medication works to stimulate cell renewal that reverses deficiency issues. Visible changes will be subtle as aging damage is incrementally repaired. Dramatic or rapid improvements are unlikely.
Some patients see initial results in 1-2 months like:
Over 3 months, benefits may include:
After 6 months, possible improvements involve:
And within 1 years of treatment, benefits may entail:
The key is staying consistent long term. HGH therapy takes months to years before patients look and feel 10 to 20 years younger. But successful treatment can help you defy the aging process from the inside out.
HGH injections work best when paired with healthy lifestyle choices that complement treatment. Below we cover key areas to focus on improving that enhance hormone therapy results:
Nutrient deficiencies inhibit HGH function. Ensure you eat a balanced diet high in:
And limit sugar, refined carbs and processed foods that spike/crash energy and promote inflammation.
Weight-bearing and muscle-building exercise naturally stimulates growth hormone release. Aim for:
Shoot for 30 to 60 minutes daily, along with 8,000 steps of movement.
The majority of daily HGH secretion happens during deep, restorative sleep. Get on a regular sleep-wake cycle aiming for 7 to 9 hours nightly. Limit electronics before bed, keep your room cool and dark, reduce caffeine and try natural sleep aids like magnesium, glycine or melatonin if needed.
Chronic stress elevates cortisol which inhibits HGH. Make time to unwind daily via:
When it comes to hormone health, having an experienced, reliable provider you trust is key. At Elite Hormone Therapy our specialized medical team offers:
We take time talking with you to understand your unique situation while proposing science-backed solutions. Our goal is to help you look and feel your best through expert restorative treatments.
Our Baytown hormone clinic provides a suite of vital services under one roof, including:
We offer extended hours and same day appointments when needed along with walk-ins for urgent concerns.
Many hormone issues stem from complex root causes requiring specialized testing and care. We help patients identify and treat the true underlying triggers for lasting results. Our clinic works with all major insurance providers while offering competitive self-pay rates and financing options.
Reclaim your health, confidence and passion for life through SYZYHormones' individualized therapies, hometown compassion and clinical excellence. We look forward to guiding your journey.
