Acromegaly is a critical medical condition in which the pituitary gland overproduces growth hormone during adulthood in which the bone size of hands and feet increases.
Acromegaly is rare with 3 to 14 cases in 100,000 people. It is usually diagnosed in middle age, but symptoms can appear at any age. In adults, the bones, cartilage, organs, and other tissues increase. In children, it causes a condition called gigantism (abnormal increase in height) before the puberty ends.
Symptoms:
• Weight gain
• Enlargement of bones especially of the face, hands and feet
• Growth of facial hairs in women
• Pain in joints
• Weakness in muscles
• Fingers and toes become wider
• Fatigue and weakness
• Sleep deprivation
• Sebaceous glands get enlarged
• Voice becomes hoarse
Causes:
• When Pituitary gland overproduces growth hormone
Treatment:
• Surgery
• Medications
• Radiation
