Recognizing Acromegaly: The Subtle Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Doctor explains the subtle signs of acromegaly, a condition caused by excess growth hormone. Learn how to identify early symptoms like facial changes, swelling of hands and feet, and other key indicators.
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Topic Breakdown
Acromegaly is an elusive condition that often goes unnoticed until its symptoms become quite pronounced. This disorder, characterized by the overproduction of growth hormone, usually results from a non-cancerous tumor on the pituitary gland called an adenoma. While it can affect individuals of any age and gender, it is most commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
One of the earliest signs of acromegaly is the gradual transformation of facial features. These changes might be subtle at first, but over time, they become more noticeable. The brow, lower jaw, and nose tend to enlarge, and the teeth may become more widely spaced. This phenomenon is often recognized by friends or family members before the individual themselves. Specific changes include frontal bossing, where the frontal bone becomes enlarged, and enlarged paranasal sinuses, particularly the frontal sinuses. For instance, in the photos provided in the video, you can see clear examples of frontal bossing and prognathism (protrusion of the jaw) in patients with acromegaly.
Another common symptom is the swelling of hands and feet. Patients might observe that their rings or shoes no longer fit as they used to. A useful clinical tip for healthcare professionals is to ask subtle questions about changes in ring or shoe size rather than directly asking if the hands or feet have become larger. This approach can yield more accurate information about the patient's condition.
Increased tiredness, difficulty sleeping, and sleep apnea are also frequent complaints among those with acromegaly. It's beneficial to have a second person present during consultations, with the patient's consent, to provide insights into the patient's sleeping issues.
Numbness and weakness in the hands, caused by compressed nerves, is another symptom. This condition, known as carpal tunnel syndrome, occurs because the over-secretion of growth hormone leads to sodium and water retention in the extracellular fluid, causing swollen synovial tissues to compress the median nerve.
As acromegaly progresses, the symptoms mentioned above, such as enlarging facial features, tiredness, and changes in hand and foot size, become more pronounced. Hormonal imbalances can also lead to skin changes, including thick, coarse, oily skin, skin tags, and excessive sweating. Patients might notice a deepening of the voice due to enlarged sinuses and vocal cords.
Other non-specific symptoms include joint pain, persistent tiredness, weakness, headaches, blurred or reduced vision, loss of sex drive, abnormal periods in women, and erection problems in men. These symptoms, while not unique to acromegaly, are important indicators that warrant further investigation.
If you're a healthcare professional or someone interested in learning more about acromegaly, including its causes, investigations, and treatment options, I encourage you to explore additional resources. I've included links to the NHS website and other recognized medical sites in the description box beneath the video. These resources provide a wealth of information that can deepen your understanding of this condition.
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