For adults, HGH deficiency testing is the method used to diagnose growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Unlike children who suffer predominantly from slow growth, GHD in adults may cause widespread problems in both physiological and cognitive functions. Blood level assessment of various hormones will let the hormone doctor know if growth hormone decline is the cause of any concerns.
What does growth hormone deficiency testing consist of, and how do I begin?
Testing for growth hormone deficiency begins with a medical consultation with a hormone specialist. The diagnosis, testing, and treatment of hormonal imbalance are best handled by a doctor who has extensive background, training, and experience in adult hormone replacement therapy. Do not expect this service from general physicians who do not have this expertise.
During the consultation, the medical advisor and client discuss symptoms, health status, medication use, and any treatments received, such as brain surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. If the client decides to proceed with HGH deficiency testing, a visit to a local blood laboratory is scheduled. The remaining two steps consist of completing our online health questionnaire and getting a physical examination. The requirement for the exam may be waived if a person has recently visited their doctor and can have the form completed and sent to our hormone clinic.
HGH deficiency testing consists of a consultation, blood test, examination, and completion of a health history questionnaire.
What Does HGH Deficiency Testing Check?
The blood tests ordered depend on the individual’s health status, and the symptoms reported. HGH Clinic San Diego offers a few different panels based on need. In all cases, growth hormone levels are assessed directly through the IGF-1 blood test. IGF-1 is insulin growth factor 1, a hormone produced by the liver based on how much growth hormone the organ receives. The IGF-1 panel is a better marker of HGH deficiency as it remains at a relatively constant state in the bloodstream. Growth hormone, on the other hand. Enters and exits the bloodstream rapidly, in pulsatile bursts every three to five hours. That makes it a poor example for direct testing.
We find that by checking IGF-1 levels, along with testosterone, estradiol, lipids, CBC, TSH+Free T4, thyroid, and comprehensive metabolic panel, we can accurately assess if there is a hormone problem, and how best to treat it.
As part of the complete HGH deficiency testing, males will also be checked for PSA levels and women for progesterone levels. More detailed panels often used when testosterone deficiency is also suspect include vitamin D and a more in-depth testosterone level examination.
HGH deficiency testing checks various hormone levels, blood count, lipids, thyroid functions, and more.
Where Do I Get HGH Deficiency Testing in San Diego, California?
Affordable, reliable HGH deficiency testing in San Diego, California, is done at local laboratories throughout the area. LabCorp is often used, especially with its newest, in-depth analysis of testosterone levels.
Appointments are set for first thing in the morning after the lab opens. The reason is that fasting is required from the night before for accurate hormone level assessments.
Local laboratories throughout the Southern California area make it easy to get HGH deficiency testing.
How Do I Get HGH Deficiency Testing in San Diego, CA?
The scheduling of any HGH deficiency testing begins with a consultation with a medical advisor here at HGH Clinic San Diego, CA. We conduct these consultations over the phone at no charge. By doing so, men and women can find out if it is necessary or recommended for them to proceed with the diagnostic testing without any cost or having taken any time away from their busy lives.
For a free consultation with our experienced and caring hormone professionals, please contact us by phone during regular business hours, or by completing the form above. Feel free to provide any information, as well as the best time for us to call you on the form.