Symptoms of high prolactin in men and women vary, as this disorder affects sexual function and reproductive capacity in both genders.
What are the high prolactin symptoms?
Men and women share some signs when prolactin levels increase, most notably a loss of sexual desire, infertility, and decreased bone density. There are also gender-specific symptoms:
Elevated prolactin in women:
- Menstrual disturbances, such as irregularity or cessation of periods.
- Milky discharge from the breast (galactorrhea) when not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse.
- Breast tenderness or sensitivity to pressure.
Symptoms for men:
- Erectile dysfunction and difficulty maintaining an erection.
- Enlargement of breast tissue (gynecomastia) or fluid discharge from the nipples.
- Reduction in muscle mass and a decrease in body and facial hair.
- General feelings of fatigue and exhaustion.
Blood prolactin levels
Normal values for this hormone vary based on health status and gender, measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL):
- Men: Sources vary on the upper normal limit; some state it is less than 18 ng/mL, while others suggest less than 20 ng/mL.
- Non-pregnant women: Estimates range between less than 25 ng/mL and less than 29 ng/mL.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Levels range between 10 and 209 ng/mL.
High prolactin causes in men
The triggers vary between natural factors and medical conditions:
- Natural factors: Exercise, sexual intercourse, eating, or exposure to psychological stress and physical exhaustion.
- Medical causes: The presence of a prolactinoma (benign tumor) in the pituitary gland, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney and liver diseases, Cushing’s syndrome, and lymphocytic hypophysitis.
- Medications: Certain antipsychotics (such as risperidone), tricyclic antidepressants, blood pressure medications (such as verapamil), and opioid analgesics.
- Others: Nipple stimulation or the use of herbs such as fennel, fenugreek, and red clover.
Treatment options for high prolactin in men and women
The treatment path depends on the primary cause of the condition:
- Medications: Using dopamine agonists such as cabergoline and bromocriptine to lower hormone levels.
- Treating the cause: Such as treating hypothyroidism or replacing the medication causing the increase.
- Surgical intervention: Removal of the pituitary tumor if medications fail or if the tumor size is large.
- Radiation therapy: Used as a last resort to shrink large adenomas.
FAQ
Does high prolactin in men cause infertility?
Yes, as it leads to reduced testosterone production and inhibits hormones that stimulate the testes. This weakens the quality and motility of sperm and reduces the count, accounting for approximately 11% of male infertility cases.
What is the duration of treatment for high prolactin in men?
The duration varies depending on the cause and dose, but dopamine agonists may begin lowering levels within the first 2 to 3 weeks.
How long does it take for a person to stop medications?
A doctor may recommend a trial period without medication if levels remain normal and no tumor appears on an MRI for two years, provided there is continuous monitoring.
When should you visit a doctor?
You should seek medical consultation immediately if the following signs appear:
- Severe and unexplained headaches.
- Sudden vision disturbances.
- Milky discharge from the breasts in men or non-breastfeeding women.
- Sudden sexual dysfunction or complete loss of desire.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team