What does it mean to have high prolactin levels?
Nov 27, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, prolactin refers to the milk-secreting hormone. When prolactin levels exceed the normal range, it is called hyperprolactinemia. Hyperprolactinemia may be associated with factors such as stress response, pregnancy and lactation, hypothyroidism, drug-induced hyperprolactinemia, and polycystic ovary syndrome. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, regular作息 (作息 should be translated as作息, but seems like a missing word in translation, possibly "作息" means "rest and activity patterns" or "daily routine"), and a balanced diet in daily life.
Generally speaking, prolactin refers to the milk-secreting hormone. When the prolactin level exceeds the normal range, it is called hyperprolactinemia. Hyperprolactinemia may be related to factors such as stress response, pregnancy and lactation, hypothyroidism, drug-induced hyperprolactinemia, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Stress Response
When the body experiences stress, such as intense physical activity, emotional tension, or pain stimulation, the pituitary gland may release more prolactin as part of the stress response. This transient increase in prolactin is usually a normal physiological reaction. In daily life, maintaining a good psychological state, avoiding prolonged exposure to high-pressure environments, and learning effective emotional management techniques are recommended.
2. Pregnancy and Lactation
During pregnancy, prolactin levels gradually increase in preparation for lactation after childbirth. During lactation, prolactin levels remain elevated to promote milk production. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require treatment.
3. Drug-induced Hyperprolactinemia
Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antihypertensive drugs, may directly stimulate the pituitary gland to secrete prolactin or interfere with prolactin clearance mechanisms. This may be accompanied by other drug-related side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and insomnia. The medication should be discontinued or replaced with other drugs under a doctor's guidance.
4. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient synthesis or secretion of thyroid hormones. A decrease in thyroid hormones reflexively stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete more thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which in turn can promote prolactin secretion. Symptoms may also include cold intolerance, fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. Treatment may include medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, and methylprednisolone tablets under medical guidance.
5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine and metabolic disorder mainly characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian morphology changes. Hyperandrogenism may interfere with normal pituitary function, leading to abnormal prolactin secretion. Symptoms may also include infrequent menstruation, infertility, hirsutism, and acne. Medications such as ethinyl estradiol cyproterone acetate tablets, metformin hydrochloride, and spironolactone tablets may be used as directed by a physician.
In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular sleep patterns, balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and avoiding prolonged exposure to high-pressure environments is recommended.
