What diseases may cause elevated prolactin levels?

Generally, elevated prolactin levels may be associated with several conditions, including physiological hyperprolactinemia, pituitary microadenoma, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and hypothalamic disorders. If abnormally high prolactin levels are detected, it is recommended to seek timely evaluation and treatment at a formal hospital's endocrinology or gynecology department. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Physiological Hyperprolactinemia

In women, prolactin levels may temporarily increase during pregnancy, lactation, intense physical activity, or emotional stress due to hormonal changes. This is considered a normal physiological phenomenon. No specific treatment is required. Pregnant and lactating women should regularly monitor prolactin levels. Non-pregnant individuals can promote normalization of prolactin by adjusting their sleep patterns, relieving stress, and avoiding strenuous exercise.

2. Pituitary Microadenoma

A benign small adenoma in the pituitary gland can secrete excessive prolactin, leading to elevated prolactin levels. This condition is often accompanied by menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea, and galactorrhea. Under medical guidance, medications such as bromocriptine mesylate tablets, cabergoline tablets, and vitamin B6 tablets may be used to inhibit prolactin secretion from the adenoma and regulate hormone levels. Regular pituitary MRI scans are also necessary to monitor changes in adenoma size.

3. Hypothyroidism

Insufficient thyroid hormone secretion triggers feedback stimulation of the pituitary gland to release thyrotropin-releasing hormone, which in turn promotes increased prolactin secretion. Symptoms may include fatigue, cold intolerance, and menstrual abnormalities. Under medical supervision, levothyroxine sodium tablets can be used to supplement thyroid hormone, improve thyroid function, and regularly recheck thyroid function and prolactin levels to adjust medication dosage.

4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Ovarian dysfunction leading to elevated androgen levels and ovulation disorders can indirectly affect prolactin secretion. Symptoms may include hirsutism, acne, and oligomenorrhea. Dietary adjustments to reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, along with appropriate exercise to control weight, are recommended. Under medical guidance, medications such as ethinyl estradiol cyproterone acetate tablets, spironolactone tablets, and metformin hydrochloride tablets may be used to regulate hormone levels, improve insulin resistance, and lower prolactin levels.

5. Hypothalamic Disorders

Inflammation, tumors, or other hypothalamic abnormalities can interfere with the secretion of prolactin-inhibiting factors, leading to elevated prolactin levels due to loss of inhibition. This is a rare pathological condition, often accompanied by headache and vision loss. Under medical guidance, methylprednisolone sodium succinate for injection may be used to control inflammation. If a tumor is present, a neuroendoscopic hypothalamic tumor resection may be necessary to remove the lesion and restore normal hypothalamic regulation of prolactin.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late; reduce mental stress and maintain emotional stability; avoid long-term use of medications that may affect prolactin levels; and undergo regular hormone level check-ups to monitor endocrine health.