Can Stress and Hormones Affect Height Growth in Young Men?

Q: Can Stress and Hormones Affect Height Growth in Young Men?

Hello, in response to your question： A male height of 165 cm is not considered very short; it is still within the 95th percentile. <br>Additionally, by the age of 20, the growth plates have already matured and will not close prematurely due to other factors (as they are already c

Growth issues

Hello Dr.
Chen: I am a 23-year-old male, but I am only 165 cm tall.
When I was 20, I played basketball almost every day in hopes of reaching 170 cm.
However, at 21, due to stress and bipolar disorder (which causes elevated mood), my forehead started to recede and my hair became increasingly sparse.
Later, after using mood stabilizers, my hair loss stabilized.
I would like to know if stress and bipolar disorder (which causes elevated mood) could lead to an increase in male hormones that might close the growth plates and subsequently affect my future height, as someone who wishes to grow taller.

A-Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/03/21

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics

Hello, in response to your question: A male height of 165 cm is not considered very short; it is still within the 95th percentile.
Additionally, by the age of 20, the growth plates have already matured and will not close prematurely due to other factors (as they are already closed).
Therefore, please stop these thoughts and spend more time enriching yourself; substance is much more important than height.
Dr.
Li Wen-Lin, Orthopedic Department, Keelung Municipal Hospital.

Reply Date: 2010/03/21

More Info

Stress and hormonal changes can indeed have an impact on height growth, particularly during the critical growth periods of adolescence. However, the relationship between stress, hormones, and height is complex and influenced by various factors, including genetics, nutrition, and overall health.

In young men, the growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, are responsible for bone growth and height increase. These plates remain open during puberty, allowing for growth, and typically close after this period. For males, puberty generally occurs between the ages of 12 and 17, with most growth occurring during this time. By the age of 20, as mentioned in your case, the growth plates are usually closed, which means that further height increase is unlikely.

Stress can affect the body in numerous ways. Chronic stress can lead to elevated levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. High cortisol levels can interfere with the body's ability to produce growth hormone, which is crucial for growth and development. Additionally, stress can lead to poor lifestyle choices, such as inadequate nutrition and lack of sleep, both of which are essential for healthy growth.

In your situation, you mentioned experiencing significant stress and symptoms of mood disorders, such as manic episodes. These conditions can lead to hormonal imbalances that may affect growth. However, since you are already 23 years old and your growth plates have likely closed, the impact of stress and hormonal changes on your height is minimal at this stage.
Regarding your concern about male hormones, testosterone does play a role in growth during puberty. It contributes to the growth spurt seen in males and is involved in the maturation of the skeletal system. However, once the growth plates close, increased testosterone levels will not lead to further height increase. Instead, it can lead to other changes, such as increased muscle mass and changes in body composition.

It's also important to note that genetics plays a significant role in determining height. The average height of your parents and siblings can provide a rough estimate of your potential height. If your family members are on the shorter side, it is likely that your height will also be influenced by these genetic factors.

In conclusion, while stress and hormonal changes can affect growth during the critical years of adolescence, by the age of 23, it is unlikely that these factors will have any further impact on your height. Instead of focusing on height, it may be more beneficial to concentrate on aspects of personal development, such as education, skills, and overall well-being. If you have ongoing concerns about your mental health or physical well-being, consider consulting with a healthcare professional who can provide support and guidance tailored to your needs.

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