Symptoms
The primary symptom is a milky discharge from the nipple that is not associated with breast-feeding. The discharge can come from one or both breasts. Other symptoms that can occur along with the discharge include:
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Abnormal or absent menstrual periods
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Heat or cold intolerance
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Disordered appetite, increase or decrease in weight
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Increased thirst or urination
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Bloody or foul-smelling discharge
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Headaches
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Acne or abnormal hair growth on chin or chest
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Vision difficulties
- Loss interest in sex
Causes
Galactorrhea has many causes, some of which include the following:
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Tumors of the pituitary gland, which is located in the brain
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Medicines such as hormones, antidepressants, birth control pills, blood pressure medicines and certain tranquilizers
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Herbal supplements such as nettle, fennel, blessed thistle, anise and fenugreek seed
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Drugs such as marijuana and opiates
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Pregnancy
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Clothing that irritates the breasts (such as scratchy wool shirts or bras that don’t fit well)
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Stimulation of the breast during sexual activity
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Hormonal imbalance (hypothyroidism)
Sometimes the cause of galactorrhea can’t be found.