I always thought stress could make us lose weight, but is it possible for stress or anything else to actually make us shorter?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ibrahim Salah

General Practitioner

MBBS
2+ Yrs

Consult Now

Stress doesn't directly affect height reduction. However, chronic stress can impact growth and development, particularly during childhood and adolescence. Here's why:

Why Stress Doesn't Directly Affect Height

Adult height is largely determined by genetics (80-90%).

Growth plates close naturally around age 18-25, marking the end of vertical growth.

Indirect Effects of Stress on Height

Hormonal imbalance: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone regulation, potentially affecting growth hormones (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).

Malnutrition: Stress can lead to poor eating habits, nutrient deficiencies, and inadequate caloric intake, potentially impacting growth.

Sleep disturbances: Stress can disrupt sleep patterns, essential for growth hormone release and bone development.

Dr. Ibrahim Suggests...

Consult a Endocrinologist

Find a Endocrinologist

Answered 04/07/2025

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I'm a 25-year-old guy with gynaecomastia and I really don't want to go through surgery. Are there any effective drug treatments that can help reduce it? What options do I have besides going under the knife?

Gynecomastia may respond to medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene in early stages; surgery is the only option for permanent removal in established cases.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I've been dealing with this issue on and off for a while now where I'm experiencing high breathing and a high heart rate. An ECG showed sinus tachycardia. Lately, I've been noticing an increase in urine production and have been having some stomach issues. There's water vomit full of air bubbles and my stool and urine are also showing air bubbles, even though the urine tests didn't detect any protein. I've become very sensitive to the cold and have been having a low-grade fever that reaches around 100 degrees. Could you help me understand what's going on?

consult a physician

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I've just turned 26 and I'm a guy. I got my thyroid test results back and found that my TSH level is super low at 0.01 uIUml, although my T3, T4, FT3, and FT4 levels are all normal. I'm a bit worried about what this means. Should I be concerned and think about seeing a doctor?

Yes it is. Low TSH with a normal t3 and t4 points to hyperthyroidism. Consult a physician.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.