Overview
Galactorrhea (guh-lack-toe-REE-uh) is a condition characterized by spontaneous, milky nipple discharge unrelated to breastfeeding. While not a disease itself, it often signals an underlying medical issue, especially when persistent. Galactorrhea predominantly affects women but can occur in men and infants as well.
Types of Galactorrhea
- Physiological Galactorrhea: Occurs due to normal hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Pathological Galactorrhea: Caused by medical conditions affecting hormone levels, such as hyperprolactinemia.
Causes of Galactorrhea
- Hormonal Imbalance: Elevated prolactin levels due to conditions like pituitary tumors.
- Medications: Certain drugs, including antipsychotics and antidepressants.
- Breast Stimulation: Excessive manipulation of breasts or frequent nipple stimulation.
- Underlying Conditions: Hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, or liver cirrhosis.
Risk Factors of Galactorrhea
Galactorrhea risk factors include:
- Gender: More common in females.
- Age: Often occurs during reproductive years.
- Medication Use: Certain medications increase risk.
Symptoms of Galactorrhea
1. Nipple Discharge: Milky or clear fluid from the nipples.
2. Breast Tenderness: Pain or sensitivity in the breasts.
3. Irregular Menstrual Periods: Changes in menstrual cycle patterns.
4. Headaches: Often associated with pituitary gland issues.
Preventions of Galactorrhea
Preventing galactorrhea involves:
- Managing Medications: Use medications only as prescribed.
- Regular Health Checks: Monitoring hormonal levels and overall health.
Diagnosis of Galactorrhea
- Medical History: Reviewing symptoms and past health issues.
- Physical Examination: Including breast and pelvic exams.
- Laboratory Tests: Checking prolactin and other hormone levels.
- Imaging Studies: MRI to detect pituitary tumors or other abnormalities.
Treatment for Galactorrhea
- Addressing Underlying Causes: Treating conditions like hypothyroidism or adjusting medications.
- Medication: Prescribing dopamine agonists to lower prolactin levels.
- Surgical Intervention: Removing tumors causing hormonal imbalances.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management and healthy diet.
When to seek medical attention ?
Seek medical advice if experiencing:
- Persistent nipple discharge.
- Breast pain or tenderness.
- Irregular menstrual cycles.
