On this page, you will find everything you need to know about elevated prolactin levels.
What Is Elevated Prolactin?
Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, crucial for milk production and breast enlargement during pregnancy, postpartum, and lactation. During these periods, high prolactin levels are normal. Otherwise, elevated levels can indicate a pituitary tumor. Both women and men can experience elevated prolactin.
What Are the Symptoms of Elevated Prolactin?
In general, they include:
- Secretion of milk or other fluids.
- Headache.
- Vaginal dryness.
- Vision changes.
- Breast enlargement.
- Irregular menstrual cycles or early menopause, occurring before the age of 40.
- Infertility.
- Hair growth.
- Hypothyroidism.
What Causes Elevated Prolactin?
Unexplained prolactin elevation occurs due to a mutation in one of the normal prolactin-producing cells in the pituitary gland, leading to excessive production. Elevated prolactin can occur in both women and men, but it is more common in women. Sometimes, there is no clear reason, but certain risk factors may increase the chances:
- Glandular problems such as hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, and gigantism.
- Pituitary gland disorders.
- Pregnancy.
- Nipple stimulation.
- Stress.
- Certain medications.
- Chronic kidney or liver diseases.
- Chest wall lesions.
How Is Elevated Prolactin Diagnosed?
The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination, potentially ordering additional procedures if necessary, such as:
- Blood tests to measure prolactin levels.
How Is Elevated Prolactin Treated?
Treatment involves several procedures, as needed, including:
- Medications that help lower prolactin production.
- Surgery.
- Radiation therapy.
How Can Elevated Prolactin be Prevented?
There is no known way to prevent elevated prolactin levels.
What Are the Complications of Elevated Prolactin?
- Delayed pregnancy.
- Sexual dysfunction.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Seek a diagnosis when symptoms appear.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does a doctor resort to surgical intervention to treat elevated prolactin?
Based on the cause, and when drug therapy fails to reduce the size of the prolactin-producing tumor.
