What are the most common symptoms of acromegaly?
The most common symptoms of acromegaly are headaches and partial loss of vision. However, because the acromegaly involves both tumor growth and hormone levels, this disease can cause various neurological and physical changes. The most visible physical changes may include swelling of the legs or hands, which is evident by a significant change in the size of the shoe or ring; The extension or expansion of the face elements that can be determined with the old photographs of the individual; and goiter caused by thyroid swelling. These visually recognizable symptoms of acromegaly may gradually develop for several years. In this disease, the pituitary is produced by an excess of growth hormone, usually due to the presence of a benign tumor called adenoma. Neurological symptoms of acromegaly, such as headaches, are caused by the pressure of the tumor on close tissue. Occasionally, symptoms of acromegaly could be caused by a tumor elsewhere in the body, for example in the abdominal or lungs.
Acromegaly symptoms related to excessive growth hormone production can cause a variety of enlarged tissues or organs. Organ enlargement may include heart, liver, spleen or kidneys. Enlarged cavities or vocal cords could lead to gradual deepening or hussy of the voice. Other types of swollen or enlarged tissues could include an increase in chest or tongue size, protrusion of the lower jaw, nose enlargement or reinforcement of hands or foot slats. Tissue swelling can cause chronic congestion of cavities or sleep apnea.
other symptoms that may not be immediately associated with acromegalia include the presence of more skin signs or small skin growth, body odor or excess sweat, acne or skin oils, chronic fatigue or muscle weakness. In women, the menstrual period could become irregular, while men could have difficulty maintaining or reaching an erection. Both sexes can experience limited mobility as a result ofchronic back or joint pain.
If it is not treated, acromegaly can have serious complications, leading to permanent damage and accompanying health. They could include arthritis, cardiomyopathy, colon polyps, uterine fibroids, diabetes, hypertension or overall loss of vision. While treatment cannot reverse bone growth caused by acromegalia, it can often reduce or end tissue swelling and reduce the risk of serious complications of the individual. Treatment could consist of removing a tumor by surgery or radiation, using drugs to reduce growth hormone or both levels.