Pituitary Tumour
The usual cause of malfunction of the pituitary gland, which produces eight different hormones. Most such tumours are benign and all occur - for reasons which are not known - in the anterior (front) lobe of the gland. Disorders such as gigantism, acromegaly, Cushing's Syndrome, and galactorrhea (abnormal milk production - see Breast Problems) are caused by excessive production of anterior lobe hormones in response to a type of tumour called an adenoma.
Craniopharyngioma
Another kind of tumour which has the opposite effect; it presses on hormone-producing cells in either the anterior or posterior lobe and decreases their output of hormones, causing dwarfism, diabetes insipidus (see Diabetes), or hypopituitarism (see below); occasionally craniopharyngiomas are malignant. A particularly large tumour may press on nerves to the eyes, causing Headaches, visual disturbances, or a Squint. Surgical removal or irradiation of pituitary tumours usually gives excellent results, although there is a small risk of damage to healthy part of gland; after surgery, hormone supplements may be necessary. Constitutional homeopathic treatment is also recommended.
Hypopituitarism
Also known as Simmond's disease, is the failure of the anterior lobe of the pituitary to produce any of its six hormones; this halts growth and production of breast milk, and inhibits the hormone-producing activities of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes; this in turn causes hypothyroidism (see Thyroid Problems), Addison's Disease, general ill health and weakness, arrested sexual development, amenorrhoea (see Menstrual Problems), Infertility, and loss of libido (see Lack of Desire for Sex).
Most common causes of hypopituitarism are head injuries and pituitary tumours (see above); occasionally, severe blood loss during childbirth is responsible. Treatment consists of hormone tablets or injections (thyroxine, hydrocortisone, testosterone, oestrogen, etc.), and surgery if necessary. Constitutional homeopathic treatment is also advised, although the remedies below may be tried while constitutional treatment is being sought.
Specific remedies to be taken every 12 hours for up to 7 days
- Symptoms onset after head injury Arnica 30c
- Symptoms onset after heavy blood loss China 30c
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