All processes in the human body are regulated by hormones. These substances not only have a significant effect on the functioning of organs, but also determine its ability to conceive, the presence of secondary sexual characteristics and even mood. One of the most important sex hormones produced by the pituitary gland in both women and men is prolactin. It regulates the work of many organs and systems of the body, so changing its level immediately reflects on human health. Especially often there is an increase in prolactin, which is referred to as endocrine diseases and is called hyperprolactinemia .
Since this hormone affects many processes in the body, it is very difficult to determine the symptoms of prolactin increase in time. Most often, the blood test to determine the level of this hormone is taken with infertility, because its increase leads to the absence of ovulation. But when prolactin is elevated, the symptoms can be different, and they can be divided into groups.
Reproductive disorders
These are the most common symptoms of increased prolactin levels. This is mainly manifested by a decrease in libido and lack of orgasm. Most often with such a problem apply to a male doctor.
Symptoms of increasing prolactin in women:
- change in the menstrual cycle - the menstrual cycle may be rare, irregular, or absent altogether;
- infertility is the most common reason for the analysis of prolactin, increasing its level leads to the lack of ovulation and the inability to conceive a child;
- If the conception was held, then a woman with increased prolactin can not tolerate a child, and at an early age, a miscarriage occurs;
- dryness of the vagina and decreased sexual desire.
Symptoms of increased prolactin in men are not much different. They also have a decrease in potency and infertility. But, in addition, there may be a disappearance of secondary sexual characteristics, for example, a decrease in breastfeeding.
Breast disorders
Since the main function of this hormone is to provide breastfeeding, this group of symptoms of an increased level of prolactin also occurs quite often. In men, this is manifested in the development of gynecomastia - an increase in the mammary glands. Breasts may look like women's. The main symptoms of increased prolactin in women are chest pains, enlargement of the mammary glands and discharge from the nipples. This is due to the fact that this hormone prepares the mammary glands to produce milk, the ducts expand and the chest swells.
Symptoms of high prolactin associated with hormonal imbalance
They include:
- various skin eruptions, acne and acne;
- hirsutism, that is, strong hair growth in women on the face, abdomen and chest;
- often there is an increase in body weight, since prolactin leads to an improvement in appetite and provokes the formation of fatty deposits;
- insensitivity to insulin and an increase in its level in the blood;
- disorders in the functioning of the thyroid gland.
Metabolic disorders
Prolactin regulates metabolic processes in the body, and changes in its level can lead to disruption of the assimilation of certain minerals. The most common loss of calcium, which leads to the development of osteoporosis,
Disorders in the work of the central nervous system
Symptoms of a high level of prolactin can also include memory loss, blurred vision, insomnia and depression. Patients complain of weakness and fatigue.
To determine in time that the hormone prolactin is elevated, you need to know the symptoms of this condition. In this case, you will be able to consult a doctor, conduct a survey and promptly conduct treatment.