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Health A-Z

What Is Acromegaly?

Acromegaly is a disorder that happens when your body makes too much growth hormone (GH). It causes abnormal growth that usually starts in your hands and feet. 

GH stimulates growth and development in children. In adults, GH affects energy levels, muscle strength, bone health, and one's sense of well-being.

Most people who get acromegaly are middle-aged. Children can have problems with too much growth hormone -- a condition called gigantism.

There are treatments for acromegaly, and every case is different. In most cases, it might be years before you notice symptoms.

Acromegaly Symptoms

Changes happen slowly, sometimes over years. Your hands and feet are usually large. You might notice a change in your ring or shoe size, especially your shoe width.

The features in your face -- your lips, jaw, nose, and tongue -- often change, becoming coarser and broader. Your teeth may begin to space out. Your brow and lower jaw may start to jut out from your face.

Other symptoms may include:

 

  • Achy joints, possibly leading to arthritis
  • Stiff, rough body hair
  • Hoarser, deeper voice
  • Pinched nerve problems
  • Skin that’s oily or thick
  • Skin tags
  • Sweating a lot with body odor
  • Headaches
  • Snoring and sleep apnea, a breathing problem that happens during sleep
  • Weakness and being tired
  • Tingling or pain in fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome)
  • Vision problems
  • Lower sex drive
  • Changes in menstrual cycle and breast discharge in women
  • Erectile dysfunction in men