Pituitary tumors can cause various symptoms, from a physical pressure to a biochemical reaction within the body. The symptoms depend on the type of tumor and whether or not it is "functioning," or producing hormones.
Tumor Pressure
Tumors that are approximately ½ inch or larger in size can cause significant physical pressure. This presents a sufferer with headaches, vision loss and nasal drainage.
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone-Producing Tumors
Adrenocorticotropic hormones cause the adrenal glands to produce excess cortisol. Weight gain, purple stretch marks, muscle weakness, fatigue, high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar are all symptoms of excess cortisol.
Growth Hormone-Producing Tumors
Excess growth hormone production can cause coarsened facial features, high blood pressure and heart conditions. Abnormally large hands or feet are also symptoms of growth hormone-producing tumors.
Prolactin-Producing Tumors
The amount of sex hormones in the bodies of both men and women is reduced in those with Prolactin-producing tumors. This causes different symptoms in men and women. Prolactin is most commonly associated with lactation in breast-feeding women, so women with excessive levels will experience irregular menstrual periods and milky discharge from the breasts. Prolactin will cause men to develop enlarged breasts, infertility and erectile dysfunction.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Tumors
In some instances, a pituitary tumor can be responsible for hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid disease that causes sudden weight loss, rapid heartbeat and irritability. This is because the tumor produces thyroid-stimulating hormones.
Tags: blood pressure, excess cortisol, high blood, high blood pressure, Hormone-Producing Tumors, physical pressure