What problems can high prolactin cause

Elevated prolactin levels may cause menstrual disorders, galactorrhea, infertility, osteoporosis, headaches, and other symptoms. Elevated prolactin levels may be related to factors such as pituitary tumors, hypothyroidism, drug effects, breast stimulation, chronic kidney disease, etc. The etiology should be determined by combining hormone tests and imaging results.

1. Menstrual disorders

Excessive prolactin can inhibit the release of gonadotropins, leading to hindered follicular development. Women may experience infrequent menstruation, amenorrhea, or reduced menstrual flow, and some patients may also experience low estrogen symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Serum prolactin testing combined with gynecological ultrasound evaluation is required, and treatment can use bromocriptine tablets or cabergoline tablets to regulate hormone levels.

2. Galactorrhea

Abnormal milk secretion in non pregnant breasts is a typical manifestation, which may be related to pituitary microadenoma compression. Male patients may also experience breast development accompanied by tenderness. Breast ductal lesions need to be ruled out, and if necessary, pituitary MRI examination should be performed. Vitamin B6 tablets can assist in improving symptoms, but should be treated with dopamine receptor agonists under the guidance of a doctor.

3. Infertility

Hyperprolactinemia can interfere with the function of the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis. Women may experience ovulation disorders, while men may experience decreased libido or erectile dysfunction. Pregnant women should be tested for follicle stimulating hormone and testosterone levels, and treatment can be combined with clomiphene citrate capsules or testosterone undecylate soft capsules.

4. Osteoporosis

Long term hormonal abnormalities can accelerate bone loss, especially in women with amenorrhea who are more prone to spinal compression fractures. It is recommended to undergo regular bone density testing, supplement with calcium carbonate D3 tablets and alendronate sodium tablets, and control prolactin levels to block the cause.

5. Headache and visual impairment

Growth of pituitary adenomas may compress the optic chiasm, causing persistent headaches and visual field defects. This situation requires urgent treatment. Pegatropium mesylate tablets can reduce tumor volume, and in severe cases, surgical resection through the sphenoid sinus is necessary. Re examination of visual field and pituitary enhanced MRI is required every 3-6 months.

found that an increase in prolactin should avoid excessive stimulation of the breasts and reduce intake of high-fat dairy products. Regular sleep patterns can help regulate hormones, and it is recommended to choose low impact activities such as yoga or swimming for exercise. Hormone levels should be rechecked every 3 months, and sudden discontinuation of medication is prohibited during the medication period. Pregnant patients should communicate with reproductive doctors in advance to adjust their treatment plan. People at high risk of osteoporosis should increase their sunshine hours and monitor their blood calcium concentration.