Q. What are some of the causes of increased prolactin levels?
Some common causes of increased prolactin levels are sleep (levels rise rapidly during sleep and peak in early hours), nursing, breast stimulation, exercise, hypoglycemia, emotional stress, exercise, ambulation, protein ingestion, hypothyroidism, pituitary tumors (prolactinomas and others), hypothalamic/pituitary stalk lesions, renal failure, HIV infection (21%), CHF, SLE, advanced multiple myeloma, Rathke cleft cyst, and intake of drugs like dopamine antagonists (phenothiazines, haloperidol, risperidone, reserpine, methyldopa, estrogens, opiates, cimetidine).
Q. What are some of the causes of decreased prolactin levels?
Some of the causes of decreased prolactin levels are pituitary necrosis/infarction, use of some drugs like bromocriptine, levodopa, etc., and conditions like pseudohypoparathyroidism.
Q. Is there any risk associated with a Serum Prolactin test?
There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting when a needle is pricked to collect a blood sample and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Some people may rarely experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times daily for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.
Q. What is the best time for sample collection for a Serum Prolactin test?
A Serum Prolactin test should be performed in the morning, nearly 2-3 hours after waking up, as the prolactin levels are usually high in the evening due to circadian rhythm.
Q. What factors can affect the results of a Serum Prolactin test?
Some factors that can affect the Serum Prolactin test results include certain psychiatric medicines, oral estrogen drugs, high blood pressure drugs, hypothyroid medicines, kidney or liver disease, high physical or emotional stress, sleep issues, strenuous exercise before the test, and alcohol consumption 24 hours before the test.
Q. What happens if the test results show a low prolactin level?
If your prolactin levels are below the normal range, this could mean your pituitary gland is not functioning properly. This is known as hypopituitarism. Lower levels of prolactin usually do not need any medical treatment.
Q. When can a doctor suggest a Serum Prolactin test in both females and males?
A Serum Prolactin test may be suggested to women when they show symptoms like changes in sexual drive, breast milk production that is not associated with pregnancy or childbirth, irregular periods, or infertility. This test may also be suggested to men if they show symptoms of high prolactin, like erectile dysfunction, low testosterone levels, and abnormal breast enlargement.
Q. I got my prolactin levels tested. Now, my doctor has advised me for a thyroid test. Why is it so?
In many patients, high levels of prolactin may be seen due to low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism). Therefore, you may be asked to get your thyroid tests done. However, high levels of prolactin do not cause low levels of thyroid hormones.
Q. Do I need additional tests along with Serum Prolactin?
Your doctor may advise additional tests depending on your situation. If your prolactin levels are high, an imaging test called a magnetic resonance imaging test (MRI) may be needed to rule out a prolactinoma. Also, in women, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) tests may be performed to help evaluate ovulation and fertility issues. Other tests such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and electrolytes may also be ordered to check thyroid and kidney functions. An eye examination may also be performed to evaluate visual disturbances.
Q. Can I schedule an online booking for a Serum Prolactin test in Allahabad?
Yes. In Allahabad, you can schedule a Serum Prolactin test with Tata 1mg Labs. The test is easy to book, cost-effective, and available with a comprehensive report.
Q. Is a Serum Prolactin test eligible for home sample collection in Allahabad?
Yes, a Serum Prolactin test is eligible for home sample collection in Allahabad. With Tata 1mg Labs, you can schedule a test at your convenience, and select a date and time for sample collection that fits your schedule.
Q. What is the procedure to book a Serum Prolactin test with Tata 1mg Labs in Allahabad?
The process to book a Serum Prolactin test with Tata 1mg Labs in Allahabad is quite straightforward. To schedule a test online, follow these steps: 1). Go to the Lab Tests section on the Tata 1mg website. 2). Add your preferred test to the shopping cart. 3). Choose a time and day that works for you as long as you also take the essential prerequisites into account. 4). A confirmation notification will be sent to you with all the details once the booking is complete.
Q. How much does a Serum Prolactin test cost in Allahabad?
We at Tata 1mg understand the importance of affordable healthcare and, therefore, provide lab tests at a pocket-friendly budget. A Serum Prolactin test in Allahabad is available at Rs. 409.
Q. What is the estimated turnaround time for the results of a Serum Prolactin test in Allahabad?
Tata 1mg Labs understands the importance of timely results and strives to deliver them quickly. On average, we deliver the results of a Serum Prolactin test in Allahabad in 48 hours.