Pituitary Tumors: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

The pituitary gland holds the hormones released from the hypothalamus. The pituitary gland releases hormones based on sensors in the body. When a tumor exists, the gland may release too much hormone, or it may hold hormone when it's needed. Tumors aren't always cancerous, but they should be removed when diagnosed.

Symptoms

• There are several symptoms of a pituitary tumor. Because the pituitary controls hormones, the typical symptoms include fever, weakness, fatigue or even seizures.

Causes

• Pituitary tumors are generally hereditary. Some environmental factors such as toxins and poor nutrition may also create tumors.

Diagnosis

• The most common tests are through drug and urine evaluation. Brain imaging scans are also helpful to detect tumors.

Treatment

• The most common treatment is surgery. To relieve the excess or lack of hormones, a surgeon removes the growths to allow the pituitary to return to normal function.

Coping

• For patients with severe side effects, therapy and family support is necessary. Pituitary tumors are not always life threatening, so consult your doctor for proper procedures and treatment.