Can HGH Cause Enlarged Heart?

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Does HGH Enlarge the Heart or Hinder Cardiac Functions?

Growth hormone has a direct and indirect influence on heart health in adults. Both excessive levels of HGH (acromegaly) and deficient levels of growth hormone can influence cardiac functions. Does HGH enlarge the heart if there is too much in the bloodstream? The answer here is yes, too much human growth hormone can lead to cardiomegaly. How will HGH increase heart size in adults? Acromegaly is a condition notable for excessive levels of growth hormone. In children, acromegaly can lead to rapid growth of the bones. Facial bone growth typically causes distortion of the jawline and forehead. A tumor located in either the pituitary gland or hypothalamus is a likely cause of growth hormone hypersecretion. In adults, the same type of tumor may also be the cause of adult-onset HGH hypersecretion. Surgical removal of the tumor or radiation can often reverse the symptoms associated with too much HGH. Heart enlargement is a possible symptom of excessive serum HGH levels.

Growth hormone exerts influence on the heart – both when deficient and in excess.

Benefits of Growth Hormone on Cardiac Function

One concern when asking does HGH enlarge the heart is how it will impact cardiac functions. Here, we look at what happens when a person has low HGH levels or growth hormone deficiency:

Elevated blood pressure (hypertension)
Increased thickness of carotid artery wall
Atherosclerosis
Decreased cardiac mass
Impaired systolic function after exercise

For adults dealing with growth hormone deficiency, boosting HGH levels helps improve the above issues. Many of the risk factors associated with HGH deficiency, such as insulin resistance, weight gain, and unfavorable lipid profile receive tremendous benefits from HGH therapy. As growth hormone levels rise, belly fat decreases. Insulin levels become lower, allowing for an increase in sensitivity to insulin’s effects on the body’s cells. The cells, in turn, can take in the circulating blood glucose, reducing the risk of diabetes. Cholesterol levels normalize, reducing the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis). The result is a lower risk of stroke or heart attack. HGH, working with its mediating hormone insulin growth factor 1, stimulates myocardial contractility. It increases left ventricular mass while lowering vascular resistance.

HGH deficiency impairs heart functions and increases the risk of cardiovascular effects. Human growth hormone therapy improves cardiac functions and heart health.

What Are the Risks of Growth Hormone on Cardiac Function?

Although HGH is crucial for the body, its overuse or misuse can lead to dangerous health issues. Substance abuse by male weightlifters often includes both steroids and HGH injections. Prolonged use of human growth hormone can lead to acromegaly. Does HGH enlarge the heart if acromegaly is due to growth hormone abuse? Yes, it is possible that too much HGH can lead to cardiomegaly in bodybuilders and athletes. The same effects are true of people dealing with acromegaly due to a pituitary or hypothalamic tumor. In any case, HGH hypersecretion is detrimental to the body. Possible cardiac function risks of too much HGH include:

Hypertension – elevated blood pressure puts more of a strain on the heart
Arrhythmia – abnormal heartrate resulting in tachycardia can cause the heart to beat too fast
Heart valve dysfunction – the valve flaps do not open and close properly which can cause blood to leak back into the heart
Cardiomyopathy – enlarged heart muscle causing the heart to pump harder to send blood into the body

The result of continued abuse of HGH can lead to increased risk of morbidity and mortality.

Acromegaly caused by HGH abuse or tumors can lead to impaired cardiac functions and heart enlargement.

Can HGH Cause Heart Problems?

The bottom line is this: HGH use is extremely beneficial for adults with growth hormone deficiency. Doctor-prescribed HGH injections can reduce blood pressure, improve heart functions, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. HGH abuse can lead to enlarged heart muscle, hypertension, arrhythmia, valve dysfunction, and other significant heart problems that increase mortality risk. If you have further questions about does HGH enlarge the heart, please contact our clinic for a confidential consultation with a medical advisor at no charge.