What causes high levels of prolactin

Elevated prolactin levels may be caused by physiological factors, drug effects, pituitary diseases, hypothyroidism, chronic renal insufficiency, and other reasons.

1. Physiological factors:

Prolactin levels in pregnant and lactating women will significantly increase, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. Intense exercise, excessive mental stress, lack of sleep, nipple stimulation, and other factors may also cause temporary increases in prolactin levels. This type of situation usually does not require special treatment, and after eliminating the cause, the indicators can gradually return to normal.

2. Drug effects:

Antipsychotic drugs such as risperidone, antidepressants such as fluoxetine, and gastric drugs such as cimetidine may all interfere with dopamine secretion, leading to abnormal elevation of prolactin levels. Long term use of contraceptive pills or estrogen preparations can also have similar effects. It is recommended to adjust the medication plan under the guidance of a doctor.

3. Pituitary diseases:

Pituitary prolactinoma is the most common pathological cause, and tumor compression can lead to excessive secretion of prolactin. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can confirm the size of tumors, usually manifested as symptoms such as menstrual disorders, galactorrhea, and visual impairment. Treatment can use drugs such as bromocriptine or transsphenoidal surgery for resection.

4. Hypothyroidism:

Patients with primary hypothyroidism have increased secretion of thyroid stimulating hormone releasing hormone, which can stimulate the pituitary gland to secrete excessive prolactin. These patients often have symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue, fear of cold, and weight gain. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can improve prolactin levels.

5. Chronic kidney disease:

When renal dysfunction occurs, prolactin metabolism is inhibited, leading to an increase in serum levels. Patients often present with renal dysfunction such as anemia and edema, and their overall metabolic status needs to be improved through dialysis or kidney transplantation. Some patients with cirrhosis may also experience similar situations.

If prolactin continues to rise, thyroid function and pituitary MRI examinations should be improved. Maintain a regular daily routine, avoid staying up late and feeling mentally tense, and reduce intake of high-fat dairy products. When female patients experience amenorrhea or galactorrhea symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at the endocrinology department. If male patients have sexual dysfunction or breast development, the possibility of pituitary tumors should be ruled out. Regularly reviewing hormone levels is of great significance for monitoring changes in the condition.