Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Hyperpituitarism - Acromegaly
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
The goal of treatment is to stop the body from producing so much growth hormone. There are three treatment approaches:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to the anesthesia. About one-third of people who are given medicines to block the production of growth hormones have side effects. Side effects include pain at the injection site, loose stools, abdominal pain, and gallbladder stones. Radiation may cause mouth ulcers. It may also damage normal tissues around the tumor. However, accurate targeting of the radiation can lessen these effects.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
When treatment is a success, the excess bone growth should stop. There is a slight chance that the tumor that caused the acromegaly may come back.
How is the condition monitored?
The person should have yearly medical exams. Blood tests may be performed to measure the amount of growth hormone present and make sure that it stays in a healthy range. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.