Understanding Hyperprolactinemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Hyperprolactinemia

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

General

Hyperprolactinemia refers to excess secretion of the hormone prolactin, which is secreted from the pituitary gland and helps stimulate and maintain breast milk production. High levels of prolactin are normal in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Hyperprolactinemia may be caused due to pituitary tumors, which are typically benign, certain medication, Cushing syndrome, infection or trauma to the hypothalamus, and cirrhosis of the liver.

42 people with Hyperprolactinemia

Learn from others who are experiencing Hyperprolactinemia.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms in men may include erectile dysfunction, abnormal breath growth, lactation, infertiility, loss of sexual desire, headaches, and vision changes. Symptoms in women may include infertility, irregular periods, changes in menstrual cycle, loss of libido, lactation, pain in breast and vaginal dryness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include blood tests, and brain MRI.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include surgery, radiation, synthetic thyroid hormones, changes in medications and a medication that reduces prolactin called bromocriptine or cabergoline.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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