Human growth hormone (HGH) is an important hormone produced by the pituitary gland that impacts many aspects of health and wellbeing. As we age, HGH levels naturally decline, which can lead to undesirable effects. HGH deficiency occurs when the pituitary does not produce adequate amounts of HGH.
Deficiency signs and symptoms may include:
While some amount of decline is normal with aging, a true HGH deficiency can significantly impair quality of life. Getting tested is important to determine if supplementation can help restore healthy hormone levels.
Detecting an HGH deficiency starts with a simple blood test. Levels peak during deep sleep, so accurate readings require an early-morning draw after fasting. Along with HGH, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is an indirect indicator to measure.
Provocative testing may also be used if initial results are inconclusive but deficiency is still suspected based on symptoms. These specialized tests stimulate HGH release to determine if the pituitary gland is still capable of appropriate output.
HGH therapy using bioidentical growth hormone injections is the standard treatment approach for confirmed cases of adult-onset deficiency. When administered properly under medical supervision, numerous benefits are possible:
The wide range of benefits makes HGH very appealing. However, patient factors impact results so discussing options with a knowledgeable hormone therapy doctor is key.
If testing confirms an HGH deficiency, hormone replacement using bioidentical growth hormone injections is generally standard. Therapy protocols are tailored to the individual but generally involve daily shots done at home for many months. Close medical supervision ensures effectiveness and safety.
Most protocols utilize subcutaneous injections - shallow shots under skin of the abdomen, thighs or upper arms. This allows gradual absorption into the bloodstream over a 24-hour period best mimicking natural physiology.
Small, sterile "insulin syringes" make injections easily manageable for most patients. The tiny needle size minimizes discomfort. Your doctor trains on proper technique including rotating sites to avoid irritation.
Consistent daily dosing in the evening when natural HGH levels peak works well for stable blood concentrations. Missing doses can decrease effectiveness so sticking to the regimen is important.
Finding one’s minimum effective dosage for optimal response while avoiding side effects is key. Typical range in adults is 1-3 IU per day. Higher athletic performance doses are unnecessary for deficiency treatment.
Benefits emerge over months then fade after stopping since the body cannot store extras. Most patients require ongoing treatment for the long term under medical guidance. Some clinics offer “hGH holidays" - temporary structured treatment breaks.
Given the decline in physical and mental wellbeing possible, prompt diagnosis and treatment should be a priority. The sooner HGH therapy can begin, the faster benefits emerge. Certain impairment may even be reversible if caught early enough. Below are key reasons not to delay:
Postponing treatment allows muscle loss and fat gain to worsen - changes become more difficult to reverse over time. Energy and stamina decline further impairing activity levels and independence.
Untreated deficiency amplifies fall and fracture risks due to reduced bone density and muscle mass later in life. These traumatic injuries greatly reduce quality of life.
Low HGH allows shifts in body composition, energy levels and appearance to accelerate premature aging. Patients often look and feel significantly older than chronological years.
Like any gradual hormonal decline, changes often emerge subtly making deficiencies easy to overlook. But the wide range of benefits possible make having a full thyroid exam worthwhile - especially if lifestyle measures like improved diet and more activity fail to relieve concerning symptoms.
Equilibrium Hormone Institute offers cutting edge diagnostics plus access to top anti aging hormone therapy protocols. We tailor replacement dosing to your unique physiology and health goals using the latest compounding methods. Guidance for diet, exercise and nutritional support is also provided for optimal wellness during treatment. Partner with our exceptional team to discover if hormone optimization is right for you!
The warm, sunny climate of Alvin provides favorable conditions year round to support HGH therapy success. Taking advantage of pleasant weather allows activity levels to increase - a key component ensuring improvements from treatment.
Fall (September-November) brings moderately warm temperatures perfect for walks and spending time outdoors which boost mental health. The cooler months still allow participating in outdoor fitness bootcamps or sports. Vitamin D levels remain adequate despite less intense sun exposure.
Winter (December-February) allows outdoor time on many days. While slightly chillier temperatures limit very extended activity, warmer attire makes walks, yardwork, etc. quite comfortable. Enjoying plentiful seasonal sunlight remains important during therapy. Cool conditions actually promote deeper, more restorative sleep as an added benefit.
Spring (March-May ) provides warmer weather perfect for freely increasing activity levels necessary to gain the most from growth hormone therapy. Spending more time outside offers extra immune strengthening vitamin D and mood enhancing sunlight. Conditions allow ramping up yardwork, outdoor fitness programs, recreational sports leagues and other physical hobbies.
Summer (June-August) is the most ideal season overall. Warm sunny weather motivates higher activity levels and time spent outdoors which supports achieving therapy goals. Long daylight hours enhance mood. Despite higher temperatures, carefully hydrating allows comfortably maintaining strenuous workouts and an active lifestyle. Adjusting timing for outdoor activities allows avoiding intense mid day heat as needed.
Convenient local options for blood testing prior to starting treatment include:
These facilities allow self ordering tests if needed but we will provide referrals. Most insurances cover lab fees when medically appropriate.
Taking full advantage of therapy means staying active while also properly managing stress levels. Local favorites include:
Parks and Trails - Brazoria County Parks - Quintana Beach County Park - Sea Center Texas Parks - Lake Jackson Nature Center
Gyms and Fitness - The Arena Fitness Center - Planet Fitness - Orangetheory Fitness
Relaxation and Mental Health - Elizabeth Lee Wellness Spa - Glitter Tribe Art Studio - Pure Barre Studio
Pairing fitness and fun with sufficient rest and relaxation helps achieve well rounded health - ensuring growth hormone therapy succeeds. Our staff also provides referrals to therapists, life coaches and general wellness providers. We support complete mind/body health optimization.
Although often associated with athletes and bodybuilders, HGH therapy was originally developed in the 1980s to treat growth hormone deficiency in children. It was found to help increase height in those lacking adequate growth hormone, before later being used experimentally for other conditions.
With over a decade of experience, Equilibrium Hormone Institute offers the latest diagnostics and cutting edge hormone replacement therapy (HRT) protocols tailored to your unique needs. Our exceptional staff training focuses on customer service excellence so you always feel listened to and cared for.
Our certified hormone doctors stay current on the latest anti aging medicine advances through continual education and conference attendance. We utilize advanced testing and only pharmacuetical grade hormones. Computerized software tracks progress so protocols adjust to your changing physiology over time. We partner with local compounding pharmacies to create customized treatment regimens.
Our clinic has fine tuned growth hormone therapy techniques giving excellent patient outcomes over years of practice. We determine your minimum effective dosing to optimize benefits while avoiding side effects. Careful tracking allows increment boosts only as truly needed. You work with our doctors and nurses long term - not staff lacking specialized expertise. We also provide guidance to maximize results through improved fitness, sleep and nutrition.
Our organized administrative teams handle paperwork allowing you to focus on treatment. We work with companies to maximize coverage and offer reasonable self pay rates when necessary. Various financing options are also available if costs pose an obstacle to care. Receiving needed therapy remains the priority.
Equilibrium Hormone Institute stands ready to guide patients through the complexities of growth hormone treatment. Our award winning teams offer cutting edge therapy protocols tailored to your unique health goals. Contact us today to determine if hormone optimization is your next step towards feeling youthful and living life to the fullest!
