Hyperprolactinemia
Description
Hyperprolactinemia is a condition of increased prolactin levels in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland and is responsible for milk production in a woman’s breasts after a baby is born. So, the increased levels of prolactin during pregnancy are normal. Two main hormones are responsible for controlling prolactin production: dopamine and estrogen. Estrogen increases prolactin production while dopamine suppresses it. Prolactin levels are normally low in men, and non-pregnant and non-lactating women.
Symptoms
Both women and men may suffer from infertility and reduced libido. Also,
Women may suffer from :
- Pain during intercourse due to vaginal dryness
- Having no periods or irregular periods
- Breast milk production when not pregnant or breastfeeding
Men may suffer from:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Breast enlargement
- Decreased body hair and muscle mass
Visit a General Practice doctor (General Practitioner) if you have any of the above symptoms.
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View MoreCauses
Causes of hyperprolactinemia may include :
- Prolactinoma is the main cause of hyperprolactinemia
- Hypothyroidism
- Medicines that are given for depression and high blood pressure
- Irritation of the chest wall (from surgical scars, or even a too-tight bra)
Diagnostics
Your doctor may probably request a prolactin blood test for you if you show hyperprolactinemia-related signs and symptoms.
Finding the cause of your hyperprolactinemia will be the next step if your test findings confirm it. Your doctor could order more tests for you, such as additional blood tests and imaging examinations.
Treatment
Treating hyperprolactinemia depends mainly on the cause of the disease. Some people with hyperprolactinemia who have no, or few signs may not need any treatment.
Treating the main cause of hyperprolactinemia (prolactinoma) may include :
- Medications (bromocriptine, cabergoline) : to decrease prolactin levels and decrease the size of prolactinoma.
- Surgery : to remove the tumor in case medicines have not been effective.
- Radiation therapy : a rare third option for treating prolactinomas if medications and surgery have not been effective.
Hypothyroidism, which may cause hyperprolactinemia, is usually treated with synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine); this may help in restoring the normal levels of prolactin.
