Why Starting Growth Hormone Treatment Early Matters: Don’t Wait and See
When it comes to your child’s growth and development, every inch—and every month—counts. Many parents notice their child falling behind in height or not keeping up with peers, but hope that with time, their child will “catch up naturally.” While a “wait and see” approach is tempting, especially for growth concerns, the truth is that starting growth hormone treatment early can make all the difference.
The Critical Window for Growth
Children have a limited window for growth—most of their height gain happens before puberty ends and their growth plates close. If a child is diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) or another growth disorder, delaying treatment can mean missing this window, resulting in a shorter final adult height.
Why Waiting Can Be Risky
Hoping for a sudden growth spurt isn’t always realistic. While some children are “late bloomers,” many with true growth hormone deficiency will continue to lag behind without medical intervention. If your child has been consistently below the growth curve or is much shorter than classmates, it’s important to have them evaluated by a pediatric endocrinologist.
Delaying treatment can result in:
- Reduced adult height potential
- Ongoing emotional or social challenges due to short stature
- Missed opportunity for the best possible results from therapy
The Benefits of Early Treatment
1. Maximized Growth Potential
Early diagnosis and treatment with growth hormone—such as once-weekly Ngenla—help your child achieve the height their body is capable of before their bones stop growing.
2. Better Emotional and Social Wellbeing
Children who receive treatment earlier may experience fewer challenges with self-esteem and social integration, especially during critical school years.
3. Simpler, More Effective Therapy
When started early, HGH therapy often delivers the best results and can be more straightforward to manage. Once growth plates close, even the most advanced therapies cannot add inches to height.
How to Know if Your Child Needs Help
Signs your child should be evaluated for growth hormone deficiency:
- Growing less than 2 inches per year after age 3
- Significantly shorter than classmates or siblings
- Delayed puberty or slow development
- Excess body fat around the face or stomach
- Frequent comments or concerns about height from teachers or coaches
Don’t Wait—Get Answers Now with Hghkids.com
If you’re worried about your child’s growth, don’t wait for “nature to take its course.” Early evaluation by a pediatric endocrinologist can give you clear answers and more options for your child’s future.
At Hghkids.com, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating growth disorders with the latest therapies—including Ngenla, the once-weekly HGH injection. We’ll guide you through every step, from testing to treatment, so your child can reach their full growth potential.
Have questions about growth hormone therapy or Ngenla?
Visit Hghkids.com or contact us today to schedule a consultation—your child’s future growth starts now.