What causes high prolactin levels

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

1. Physiological factors:

Physiological prolactin elevation may occur during pregnancy, lactation, intense exercise, or stress. This type of situation does not require special treatment, and hormone levels can recover on their own after eliminating the triggering factors. The secretion of prolactin during nighttime sleep can reach 2-3 times that of daytime, and there may be temporary overestimation during morning testing.

2. Drug effects:

Dopamine receptor blockers, gastric motility drugs, antidepressants, etc. may interfere with hypothalamic regulatory function. Common medications such as metoclopramide, chlorpromazine, and haloperidol often restore normal hormone levels 2-3 weeks after discontinuation. Regular monitoring of prolactin levels is required during medication.

3. Pituitary lesions:

Pituitary prolactinoma is the most common pathological factor, and tumor compression leads to reduced dopamine inhibition. Patients may experience symptoms such as amenorrhea, galactorrhea, and visual impairment. Imaging examination shows pituitary mass lesions with a diameter greater than 10 millimeters, which require consideration of transsphenoidal surgical resection.

4. Hypothyroidism:

Primary hypothyroidism increases the secretion of thyroid stimulating hormone releasing hormone, which has a stimulating effect on prolactin secretion. Accompanied by symptoms such as fear of cold, fatigue, and weight gain, thyroid hormone replacement therapy can improve hormone abnormalities.

3. Chronic renal insufficiency:

Decreased renal clearance function leads to prolactin metabolism disorders, and about 30% of dialysis patients have hyperprolactinemia. These patients often have complications such as anemia and abnormal bone metabolism, and require renal replacement therapy to improve their overall condition.

It is recommended that individuals with menstrual disorders and non lactating galactorrhea undergo pituitary MRI examination. Avoiding excessive fatigue and mental stress in daily life, and maintaining a regular schedule can help maintain hormone balance. Diet can appropriately increase foods rich in vitamin B6, such as bananas and nuts, but it is important to note that individuals with abnormal kidney function should limit their intake of high potassium foods. Moderate aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, etc. can improve endocrine regulation function.