Impact of Elevated Prolactin: Consequences, Remedies, and Beyond
High prolactin levels, also known as hyperprolactinaemia, can cause a range of health issues in both males and females. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatments associated with high prolactin levels.
Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland situated at the base of the brain. Its primary role is to help regulate hormones in the body, particularly those involved in breast development and lactation. However, when levels become too high, it can lead to various health issues.
Certain medications and health conditions can cause an increase in prolactin levels. For instance, some antipsychotic medications, high blood pressure medications, medications to treat nausea and vomiting, and pain relief medication containing opioids may contribute to high prolactin levels. Additionally, health conditions such as kidney disease, an underactive thyroid, shingles, and other types of pituitary gland tumors can also lead to elevated prolactin levels.
In females, high prolactin levels or prolactinomas (noncancerous tumors in the pituitary gland that produce prolactin) can cause a milky discharge from the nipples, irregular periods or loss of periods, infertility, loss of interest in sex, vaginal dryness, and pain during sex. Males, on the other hand, may experience symptoms such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, breast tenderness or enlargement, reduced muscle mass and strength, fatigue, mood changes, headaches, and vision problems, particularly if the high prolactin is caused by a prolactinoma (pituitary tumor).
If high prolactin levels are suspected, doctors will typically carry out blood tests to measure the amount of prolactin in the blood. If the results are abnormal, imaging tests such as an MRI scan or CT scan may be conducted to check for a prolactinoma.
Treatment for high prolactin levels often involves managing the underlying cause, if possible. For prolactinomas, dopamine agonists such as bromocriptine and cabergoline may be prescribed. These medications act similarly to dopamine in the brain and are effective in shrinking prolactinomas and controlling prolactin levels.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary. If the prolactinoma is large or has spread outside the pituitary gland, a person may require transcranial surgery, where a surgeon makes an opening in the skull to remove the tumor. Alternatively, transsphenoidal surgery, where a surgeon makes a cut behind the nasal cavity or under the upper lip to remove the tumor, may be used.
Recent research has linked high prolactin levels to mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, stress, weight gain, and hostility. A 2021 study found that people with MDD had higher prolactin levels than those without the condition.
It's important to note that symptoms can develop gradually and may overlap with other conditions. Therefore, blood tests measuring prolactin levels are essential for accurate diagnosis and management in both males and females.
In conclusion, while high prolactin levels can cause a range of health issues, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage these conditions effectively. If you suspect you may have high prolactin levels, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
- Prolactin, also known as the hormone produced by the pituitary gland, has effects on various medical-conditions, such as macular degeneration and vision problems in males.
- High prolactin levels, or prolactinomas, can lead to symptoms like dry skin and psoriasis, a type of skin inflammation, in both males and females.
- Diabetes and obesity are health-and-wellness issues that may be associated with high prolactin levels due to their connections with insulin regulation and weight gain.
- As for bipolar disorder, recent science suggests that its side effects might be linked to high prolactin levels, with some studies presenting predictive relationships between the two.
- In terms of asthma, there's ongoing research exploring whether high prolactin levels could exacerbate the condition by affecting the immune system's response mechanism.
- When it comes to the type of cancer known as NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer), some studies are investigating the impact of high prolactin levels on the disease's progression and potential treatment strategies.
- In addition to the symptoms mentioned earlier, high prolactin levels may also contribute to depression, mood swings, and overall psychological well-being.
- Similarly, migraines are another health issue that might be influenced by high prolactin levels, although more research is needed to confirm this relationship.
- Lastly, medications used to treat a variety of medical-conditions, such as migraines and asthma, might inadvertently elevate prolactin levels, potentially leading to unwanted side effects.
