5 early symptoms of pituitary tumor

In the early stages of a pituitary tumor, symptoms such as headache, decreased vision, endocrine disorders, sexual dysfunction, and fatigue may occur. These symptoms are related to the tumor compressing surrounding tissues or affecting hormone secretion. It is critical to seek medical attention in a timely manner and take medication, surgery, or radiotherapy.

1. Headache is one of the common early symptoms of pituitary tumors. Tumor growth compresses surrounding tissues, especially the dura mater, which may cause persistent or intermittent headaches. The pain is usually located in the forehead or around the eye sockets, and may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting in severe cases. If the headache is frequent and cannot be relieved, it is recommended to see a doctor for imaging examination as soon as possible.

2. Decreased vision is a typical manifestation of pituitary tumor compressing the optic nerve or chiasm. Patients may experience visual field defects, such as bitemporal hemianopsia, or blurred vision. In this case, timely ophthalmological examination and imaging evaluation are required to avoid permanent visual impairment.

3. Endocrine disorders are the result of pituitary tumors affecting hormone secretion. Tumors may lead to abnormal secretion of prolactin, growth hormone or thyroid-stimulating hormone, causing symptoms such as irregular menstruation, milk secretion, weight gain or abnormal thyroid function. Endocrine function tests can help to clarify the diagnosis.

4. Sexual dysfunction is related to the effect of pituitary tumors on sex hormone secretion. Men may experience loss of libido or erectile dysfunction, and women may experience irregular menstruation or amenorrhea. These symptoms require a comprehensive assessment in combination with hormone level testing and imaging examinations.

5. Fatigue is a common systemic symptom in patients with pituitary tumors. The tumor affects hormone secretion and may cause metabolic abnormalities. Patients often feel lack of energy and fatigue. Improving lifestyle, such as regular work and rest and moderate exercise, can help relieve symptoms.

Treatments include medication, surgery, and radiotherapy. Medication is mainly used to treat abnormal hormone secretion, such as dopamine agonists for prolactinoma. Surgical treatments include transsphenoidal approach and craniotomy, which are suitable for large tumors or severe compression. Radiotherapy is often used for patients with residual tumors after surgery or who are unable to undergo surgery.

The early symptoms of pituitary tumors are diverse, and timely identification and targeted treatment are crucial. If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible, use imaging, endocrine function tests and other means to make a clear diagnosis, and develop a personalized treatment plan.