What is the pituitary gland?

Your pituitary gland is a small gland located behind the bridge of your nose. Part of your endocrine system, your pituitary gland secretes hormones that control other endocrine glands, including the thyroid and adrenal glands.

Your hypothalamus, which is part of your brain and located above your pituitary gland, relays messages to the gland to direct hormone secretion and plays an essential role in regulating your appetite, body temperature, and sleep schedule.

What is pituitary disease?

A pituitary disease includes disorders and tumors that may alter hormone production. Types of pituitary diseases include:

Nonfunctional pituitary tumor

Nonfunctional pituitary tumors are benign tumors that grow on the pituitary gland. Though these tumors generally don’t cause problems, if they grow large in size they may alter the function of your pituitary gland.

Functional pituitary tumor

A functional pituitary tumor refers to a tumor that increases hormone production in the pituitary gland. Conditions associated with functional pituitary tumors include elevated prolactin, Cushing’s syndrome and acromegaly.

Hypopituitarism

Hypopituitarism refers to conditions that cause a decrease in pituitary gland hormone production.

What can I expect during a consultation for pituitary disease?

Complete Medicine is a membership-based practice, which allows Dr. Thangudu to offer comprehensive evaluations and consistent, ongoing follow-up care for your pituitary disease. During your initial visit, she schedules a 60-minute evaluation so she can gather information about you and your health needs, including your:

• Symptoms
• Medical and family history
• Medication and supplement use
• Health concerns
• Health goals

Dr. Thangudu may also request evidence-based diagnostic testing to assess your hormone levels. She discusses your diagnosis in detail so you understand how it affects your health, which empowers you to take more control over your own wellness.

She then uses the information gathered during your consultation to devise a comprehensive treatment plan that optimizes your overall health and meets your health goals.

How is pituitary disease treated?

Dr. Thangudu develops an individualized treatment plan for your pituitary disease that addresses your specific diagnosis and health needs using evidence-based therapies. She schedules regular follow-up appointments, which may be conducted by phone, video chat, email, or text, to monitor your response to the recommended therapies and help you stay on track.

Dr. Thangudu is a board-certified lifestyle physician and holds certification in plant-based nutrition and lifestyle modification, both of which may be included in your treatment plan.

To schedule an appointment with the endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism specialist, call Complete Medicine or book through the online form today.