Pituitary Tumor Symptoms

In someone with a pituitary tumor, symptoms will vary, depending on factors such as the type of tumor a person has, the size of the tumor, where it is located, and whether it produces hormones or not. In cases involving the most common type of pituitary tumor, a person's symptoms may include problems with menstruation, vision problems, headaches, and loss of libido. Other symptoms may include such things as high blood pressure, weight gain or loss, and excessive eating.

Pituitary Tumors

Signs and Symptoms of Pituitary Tumors: An Introduction

The symptoms of a pituitary tumor can range from simple, common complaints, such as tiredness or restlessness, to more serious symptoms, such as headaches, vomiting, or dizziness.

Symptoms vary, depending on the size and location of the tumor. If the tumor grows large and presses on nearby parts of the brain, symptoms such as headaches or dizziness can occur. A pituitary tumor can also press on the optic nerve, causing problems with vision.

Symptoms of a pituitary tumor also vary based on the hormones the tumor is producing.

Prolactin-Producing Tumors (Prolactinoma)

Prolactinomas are the most common pituitary tumors. Prolactinoma symptoms caused by the high prolactin levels produced by such a tumor can include:

Infertility.
Changes in menstruation. In some women, periods may disappear altogether. In others, periods may become irregular or menstrual flow may change.
Women who are not pregnant or nursing may begin producing breast milk.
Loss of libido (interest in sex).
Vaginal dryness.
Painful intercourse (because of vaginal dryness).
Headaches.
Eye problems caused by the enlarged pituitary pressing against nearby eye nerves.

(Click Prolactinoma Symptoms for more information about symptoms seen with this type of pituitary tumor.)

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