Height Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice and Testing Options

Height

Hello.
I am now 18 years old.
I grew to 170 cm during middle school, and I haven't grown taller since then in my senior year of high school.
Can I go to the hospital for an examination? What kind of tests should I undergo? Which department should I visit (endocrinology)? If I receive growth hormone injections, will I grow taller? Additionally, which hospitals in Yunlin provide these diagnostics? Thank you, and Happy New Year.

Chongchong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/01/28

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine

At a height of 170 centimeters, it is unlikely that there is a growth hormone deficiency.
By the age of 18, it is not expected to grow taller, and it is not recommended to undergo testing at a hospital.

Reply Date: 2005/01/28

More Info

When it comes to height concerns, especially for an 18-year-old who has not experienced any growth since middle school, it is important to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the potential underlying factors and available medical options.
First and foremost, if you are concerned about your height and growth potential, it is advisable to seek medical advice. You can start by visiting an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormones and growth disorders. They can assess whether your growth has indeed ceased and if there are any underlying conditions that may be affecting your growth.
During your visit, the doctor will likely conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include:
1. Medical History: Discussing your growth patterns, family history of height, and any other health issues you may have experienced.

2. Physical Examination: This will include measuring your height and weight, and possibly examining your skeletal maturity through an X-ray of your hand and wrist. This X-ray helps determine the growth plates' status, which indicates whether you still have the potential to grow taller.

3. Blood Tests: These can help assess hormone levels, including growth hormone, thyroid hormones, and other relevant markers that could affect growth.

4. Bone Age Assessment: This is often done through an X-ray and helps determine how much growth potential you have left.
Regarding the use of growth hormone (GH) therapy, it is essential to understand that this treatment is typically reserved for specific medical conditions, such as growth hormone deficiency or certain genetic disorders. If your growth plates have already fused, which is common after puberty, growth hormone therapy will not be effective in increasing height. The decision to use growth hormone should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate your individual circumstances.

As for hospitals in Yunlin that provide these diagnostic services, you may want to consider larger medical centers or hospitals with endocrinology departments. Some hospitals in Yunlin include:
1. Yunlin Christian Hospital
2. National Yunlin University of Science and Technology Hospital
3. Changhua Christian Hospital - Yunlin Branch
These institutions typically have the necessary specialists and facilities to conduct the evaluations mentioned above.

In summary, if you are concerned about your height, it is advisable to consult with an endocrinologist. They can guide you through the necessary tests and determine if there are any treatment options available. Remember that height is influenced by a combination of genetics, nutrition, and overall health, and understanding your unique situation will help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

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