The Symptoms of Acromegaly
The symptoms of acromegaly can affect both physical appearance and general health. Changes that affect outward appearance can be subtle and happen over years. Some of the early signs and symptoms of acromegaly can easily be mistaken for aging or symptoms of other diseases; however, some of the later signs and symptoms of untreated acromegaly can make the disease much easier to recognize. Although the list of symptoms is long, you may have only a few. The full range of potential symptoms is shown so that you can understand the challenge involved in monitoring and controlling this disease.
Besides changes in appearance, acromegaly produces changes in the way the body works that can have serious health implications. Symptoms may include:
- Arthralgia (75%)
- Amenorrhea in women (72%)
- Hyperhidrosis (64%)
- Sleep apnea (60%)
- Headaches (55%)
- Paresthesia or carpal tunnel syndrome (40%)
- Loss of libido or impotence (36%)
- Hypertension (28%)
- Goiter (21%)
- Visual field defects (19%)
It is important to always keep your health care team informed if you experience any of these symptoms, so you can get effective treatment for them. The physical signs of acromegaly may include:
- Gradual enlargement of the hands and feet (may be indicated by increased ring size or shoe size)
- Rapid growth
- Swelling of soft tissue
- Skin tags
- Thyroid disorders
- Muscle weakness/fatigue
- Skin changes, including thickening, oiliness, acne
- Hirsutism
- Coarsening of facial features, including forehead, nose, lips, tongue, jaw
Acromegaly Pictures
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