A prolactinoma is a tumour which originates in the pituitary gland and causes excessive secretion of a hormone called prolactin. This tumour causes different symptoms such as headache, visual disturbances, dysfunction of the pituitary gland, and increased production of prolactin which can in turn lead to infertility or impotence. The modern management of this condition includes treatment with medicines and surgical removal.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for prolactinoma involves the use of herbo mineral agents which have a specific action on the brain and nerve cells and also have an anti- tumour effect. These medicines are used in high doses in order to treat the tumour and bring about an early remission. Ayurvedic herbal treatment is especially useful for individuals with prolactinoma who cannot be operated upon for various medical reasons. In such individuals, Ayurvedic herbal medicines help to bring about a remission of the symptoms as well as a regression of the tumour. Different herbal medicines also need to be utilised which have a specific action on the pituitary gland and thereby help to regulate the dysfunctional hormonal production and its associated symptoms.
Symptomatic treatment for various symptoms also needs to be done; therefore, herbal medicines are used to treat headache, reduce visual disturbances, and treat infertility and impotence. Combined treatment of the tumour as well as the symptoms helps to bring about an early improvement in the affected individual. In most patients affected with this condition, treatment needs to be given for periods ranging from 9 to 15 months, in order to bring about a complete regression of the tumour as well as prevent a recurrence of the condition.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment can also be given in combination with modern medicines or after surgical removal of the tumour. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant contribution to play in the management and treatment of prolactinoma.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
