Doctor, Doctor...
By Dave Hall
For all you hypochondriacs out there, Dave Hall continues his regular look at a some of the more unusual medical conditions, as well as some you thought you knew all about.
This week: ACROMEGALY.
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Condition – This is a rare hormone disorder that causes excessive growth - we’re not talking just being tall here, we’re getting big everywhere.
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Contagion – It’s caused when the pituitary gland in the brain produces excess human growth hormone and mainly affects middle-aged adults – you can't just pick it up, so no danger here.
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| Danger of death – Not likely, you’ll just get weird looks and acting requests - famous sufferers include André the Giant, star of The Princess Bride and Richard Kiel, who played Jaws in several James Bond movies. | |
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Incurability? – Surgery can alter the pituitary gland and drugs can also keep the hormone to a lower level – but you’ll still look big.
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Likelihood of getting time off work – Unless your boss is particularly sympathetic to giants or you keep banging your head on the office door, not a chance.
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| Brag-ability – Looking like a giant is not something you’re going to shout about, but if you make it big in the movies, you’ll be quids in and famous to boot. |
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Overall ridiculousness – You’re always going to attract attention with this condition, but at least you can be sure that very few people will pick a fight with you. |
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More conditions to come soon:
Ebola, Fatal Insomnia and more.
Find more curious conditions in Doctor Doctor. If you can't wait for the next Doctor Doctor, then why not find a phunny phobia to keep you going?
Photo: Collections Canada
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