Pituitary tumour: Scary disorder that can make one 13 inches taller in 6 months

New Delhi: The pituitary gland, which is located in the skull right below the brain and above the nasal passage, is known as a master gland in the human body as it signals the other glands to start secreting hormones. Indirectly, the pea-sized gland controls the functions of vital brain parts, organs, growth, vision, skin, energy and mood. When non-cancerous cells start to multiply in the gland or above it, it is known as a pituitary tumour. This tumour does not spread beyond the skull; however, it can damage the brain and nerves.

In an unusual case reported on The Sun, a 52-year-old man was diagnosed with pituitary tumour – and what followed was a shocking six-month growth spurt. In just three months, Smith’s shoe size increased from 11 to 15. Furthermore, he grew taller by 13 inches in just six months along with behavioural changes and uncontrolled weight gain.

Later in 2014, the patient was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Although the patient got his tumour removed and was put in an induced coma after the operation, he lost his ability to work and ended up feeling exhausted too easily.

What are the symptoms of a pituitary tumour?

When struggling with a pituitary tumour, patients are likely to experience the following symptoms:

1. Headaches
2. Vision problems
3. Disturbed menstrual cycles
4. Sexual dysfunction
5. Hormonal imbalance
6. Pressing sensations on the optic nerve

On the treatment front, experts recommend medication and surgical treatment to block the excessive hormone output triggered by this condition. Additionally, patients can get the tumour removed or try radiation to reduce the size of the tumour.

How to diagnose pituitary tumours?

Pituitary tumours are also known as adenomas and in most cases they are non-cancerous. To diagnose this, experts recommend a plethora of health tests. These include:

1. Blood test
2. CT scan
3. MRI
4. Eye test

Following the diagnosis, doctors may recommend a variety of treatment options while explaining their respective pros and cons. At the same time, doctors will also recommend the best treatment for the patient’s respective case. Surgery is the most common treatment for a pituitary tumour and the operation is done through the nose without having to open the skull.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.