Symptoms

A common sign of acromegaly is enlarged hands and feet. For example, you may notice that you aren't able to put on rings that used to fit, and that your shoe size has progressively increased.

Acromegaly may also cause gradual changes in your face's shape, such as a protruding lower jaw and brow bone, an enlarged nose, thickened lips, and wider spacing between your teeth.

Because acromegaly tends to progress slowly, early signs may not be obvious for years. Sometimes, people notice the physical changes only by comparing old photos with newer ones.

Overall, acromegaly signs and symptoms tend to vary from one person to another, and may include any of the following:

• Enlarged hands and feet
• Enlarged facial features, including the facial bones, lips, nose and tongue
• Coarse, oily, thickened skin
• Excessive sweating and body odor
• Small outgrowths of skin tissue (skin tags)
• Fatigue and joint or muscle weakness
• Pain and limited joint mobility
• A deepened, husky voice due to enlarged vocal cords and sinuses
• Severe snoring due to obstruction of the upper airway
• Vision problems
• Headaches, which may be persistent or severe
• Menstrual cycle irregularities in women
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Loss of interest in sex

When to see a doctor

If you have signs and symptoms associated with acromegaly, contact your doctor for an exam.

Acromegaly usually develops slowly. Even your family members may not notice the gradual physical changes that occur with this disorder at first. But early diagnosis is important so that you can start getting proper care. Acromegaly can lead to serious health problems if it's not treated.