Why choose Geisinger for pituitary conditions?
Your pituitary gland is a small organ with a big job. In fact, it’s so important that some people call it the “master gland.” It plays a role in everything from making neurotransmitters like oxytocin and adrenaline to regulating blood pressure and salt levels to producing breast milk.
This pea-shaped, pea-sized gland at the base of your brain is your adrenal system’s command center. Many of your body’s systems rely wholly or in part on the pituitary gland.
Pituitary conditions can affect your whole self — so your treatment should, too. Geisinger endocrinologists will help you understand what’s happening and map out a plan that works for you, your condition and your life.
Are you ready to take back control of your health? Find an endocrinologist today.
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FAQs
What are symptoms of pituitary gland problems?
Pituitary conditions can cause a variety of symptoms. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, they’ll often suspect pituitary conditions when someone has at least 3 of the following symptoms:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (symptom of acromegaly)
- Depression
- Early menopause
- Easy bruising
- Fatigue
- Impaired sense of smell
- Impotency or infertility
- Irregular periods
- Joint pain
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Osteoporosis
- Unexplained weight change
What types of pituitary conditions are there?
Pituitary conditions include:
- Acromegaly – In this congenital condition, your pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone.
- Cushing’s disease – Your pituitary tells your adrenal glands to make too much cortisol.
- Diabetes insipidus – A rare condition that causes an imbalance of fluids. Symptoms include extreme thirst and excessive urination.
- Hypophysitis – Inflammation of the pituitary gland.
- Pituitary tumor – Benign or cancerous growth on the pituitary gland, most commonly adenoma.
- Prolactinoma – This is the most common form of pituitary adenoma.
- Traumatic brain injury – So-called TBIs can injure and disrupt the pituitary gland.
What are risk factors for pituitary disorders?
You may be more at risk for pituitary disorders if you:
- Were assigned female at birth
- Have a family history of pituitary disorders
- Have had infections such as meningitis or tuberculosis
- Are pregnant
- Have had a stroke
- Have had traumatic brain injury
- Have Type 2 diabetes
How can you treat pituitary conditions?
Treatment for pituitary disorders depends on the type you have and how severe it is. Treatments can include:
- Lifestyle interventions like help with eating and movement patterns
- Medications aimed at rebalancing your hormone levels and easing symptoms
- Radiation treatment to shrink pituitary tumors
- Surgery to remove growths from the pituitary gland
How are pituitary problems diagnosed?
Can you live a normal life with a pituitary adenoma?
Pituitary care at Geisinger
- Care close to home: With locations throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania, you won't have to travel far for consultations, treatment, or follow-up appointments. Get the care you need — where you need it.
- Your treatment, your voice: You can be an active partner in every decision about your health. Feel heard and listened to, get answers to your questions and talk about your treatment plan with your care team
- A team approach: Your care team may include endocrinologists, surgeons and other specialists who work together to give you comprehensive support.
- Genetic testing and counseling programs: Special research programs such as the MyCode® Community Health Initiative are only available at Geisinger. Participating allows you to contribute to research. Some participants may receive information about their own genetic risks. Learn about MyCode.