Know Your Blood Parameters: Growth Hormone (GH)

1. Parameter Name

   Growth Hormone (GH)
   

2. Test Type

   Blood
   

3. Normal Range

   Fasting adult: < 5 ng/mL (varies by lab and stimulation)
   

4. High Levels Indicate

   Acromegaly, pituitary tumors.
   

5. Low Levels Indicate

   Growth hormone deficiency, pituitary insufficiency.
   

6. Why It's Tested

   To evaluate growth disorders, suspected pituitary tumors, or GH deficiency.
   

7. Associated Symptoms (if abnormal)

   High: Enlarged hands/feet, facial changes, joint pain.

   Low: Short stature (children), fatigue (adults).
   

8. What To Do If Abnormal

   Perform GH stimulation or suppression tests; imaging for pituitary.
   

9. Common Conditions Related

   Acromegaly, GH deficiency.
   

10. Nutrition or Lifestyle Connection

    Adequate sleep, balanced nutrition supports natural GH secretion.
    

11. References (APA Format)

    Melmed, S. et al. (2016). Williams Textbook of Endocrinology (13th ed.). Elsevier.

    MedlinePlus. (2023). Growth Hormone Test.https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/growth-hormone-gh-test/