Overview
Because the pituitary controls many other glands, hypopituitarism can affect growth, the thyroid, adrenal glands, fertility and water balance. Hormone replacement is effective.
Symptoms
- Tiredness and weakness
- Feeling cold and weight changes
- Low sex drive, irregular periods or infertility
- Poor growth in children
- Low blood pressure and dizziness
- Excessive thirst and urination
Causes and risk factors
Causes include pituitary tumours, surgery or radiotherapy, head injury, severe bleeding after childbirth (Sheehan's syndrome) and infections.
Diagnosis
Blood tests measure pituitary and target hormones. MRI of the pituitary looks for the cause.
Treatment
Treatment is lifelong replacement of the missing hormones, such as hydrocortisone, thyroxine, sex hormones and growth hormone.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for unexplained tiredness, low sex drive or absent periods, especially after a head injury or pituitary surgery.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
