What are the reasons for not growing taller?
Aug 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
Height generally refers to a person's stature. Under normal circumstances, factors that may contribute to lack of height growth include genetic factors, age and gender, congenital skeletal developmental abnormalities, hypothyroidism, growth hormone deficiency, etc. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specifically, genes encoded in genetic information regulate the secretion of growth hormone.
Height generally refers to a person's stature. In most cases, lack of height growth may be caused by genetic factors, age and gender, congenital skeletal developmental abnormalities, hypothyroidism, or growth hormone deficiency. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Genetic Factors
Genes encoded in genetic information regulate physiological processes related to height, including growth hormone secretion and skeletal development, which may influence final height. Adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as balanced nutrition and moderate exercise—can help maximize an individual’s growth potential.
2. Age and Gender
Puberty is triggered by increased secretion of gonadal hormones, initiating a series of physiological changes. Girls typically enter puberty earlier than boys, resulting in an earlier growth spurt. Additionally, differences in the patterns and peak levels of gonadal hormone secretion between genders may contribute to variations in height growth. Regular monitoring of height and weight is recommended to ensure growth and development remain within the normal range.
3. Congenital Skeletal Developmental Abnormalities
Congenital skeletal developmental abnormalities may result from gene mutations or hereditary factors, impairing cartilage cell proliferation and ossification at the growth plates, thereby affecting height. Patients may also experience symptoms such as pain or fractures. Under medical supervision, medications such as vitamin D drops, calcium gluconate oral solution, or recombinant human growth hormone injections may be used to alleviate symptoms.
4. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism results from reduced synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones. Insufficient thyroid hormone impairs the development of the skeletal and nervous systems, potentially restricting height growth. Common accompanying symptoms include slowed reaction time and cold intolerance. Medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, prednisone acetate tablets, or methylprednisolone tablets may be prescribed under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.
5. Growth Hormone Deficiency
Growth hormone deficiency may be caused by abnormal development of the anterior pituitary gland, genetic factors, or other causes. It affects longitudinal bone growth and muscle development, thereby limiting height increase. It may also be associated with metabolic disturbances or delayed sexual development. Symptomatic treatment under a doctor's supervision may include medications such as arginine hydrochloride injection, stanozolol tablets, or levodopa tablets.
Regular appropriate physical activity in daily life can help improve blood circulation, metabolism, and skeletal development.
