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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Does High Prolactin Level In Hypothyroidism Mean?

I have had hypothyroidism for 22 years and have been taking Synthyroid for the same amount of time. Recently I have been experiencing some difficulties with my period (i.e late, painful, short periods, and headaches). I went to see my gyn and she did hormone testing. Results are back and was told I have high prolactin levels (results read 46). What does this mean? And how will this effect my everyday? Is this due to many years of taking synthyroid? I will be following up with an endo but until my appt comes up I am a little nervous.
Tue, 12 Jan 2016
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Neurologist, Surgical,  's  Response
Hello. Thanks for asking from HCM.


I can understand your concern. The raised prolactin level in hypothyroidism patients is due to low thyroid secreting hormone and low sex steroids, not due to intake of synthyroid.

The reason of this association - Prolactin hormone is secreted by pituitary gland in brain. It is controlled or checked by Dopamine and sex steroids. In case of hypothyroidism, thyroid secreting hormone (TSH) and low sex steroids lead to low dopamine in pituitary gland. This leads to increased production od Prolactin. This hormone prepares a female for child birth and breast feeding.

Thats why hyper secretion of Prolactin leads to headache, infertility, loss of libido. Treatment will include
measuring value of prolactin,
ruling out other causes of raised prolactin,
antiprolactin drugs like Bromocriptine/Cabergoline which you can take after proper prescription.
It is usually managed by medication. If still not relief, you can consult doctor.


Thanks. Take care.
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What Does High Prolactin Level In Hypothyroidism Mean?

Hello. Thanks for asking from HCM. I can understand your concern. The raised prolactin level in hypothyroidism patients is due to low thyroid secreting hormone and low sex steroids, not due to intake of synthyroid. The reason of this association - Prolactin hormone is secreted by pituitary gland in brain. It is controlled or checked by Dopamine and sex steroids. In case of hypothyroidism, thyroid secreting hormone (TSH) and low sex steroids lead to low dopamine in pituitary gland. This leads to increased production od Prolactin. This hormone prepares a female for child birth and breast feeding. Thats why hyper secretion of Prolactin leads to headache, infertility, loss of libido. Treatment will include measuring value of prolactin, ruling out other causes of raised prolactin, antiprolactin drugs like Bromocriptine/Cabergoline which you can take after proper prescription. It is usually managed by medication. If still not relief, you can consult doctor. Thanks. Take care.