What is galactorrhea?

Galactorrhea refers to the abnormal discharge of milk or milky fluid from the breasts in women who are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. It is not exclusive to women and may also occur in men.

Galactorrhea is considered abnormal unless the person is a breastfeeding mother. It can be caused by various underlying medical conditions, such as:

1. Pituitary Gland Issues: The pituitary gland is responsible for hormone regulation, including prolactin levels. Conditions such as prolactinoma, a pituitary tumor, or other disorders that affect the pituitary gland can lead to increased prolactin production, causing galactorrhea.

2. Medications: Certain medications can have galactorrhea as a side effect. These include birth control pills, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and drugs for treating gastrointestinal disorders.

3. Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can interfere with the normal balance of hormones, leading to galactorrhea.

4. Stress and Certain Medical Conditions: Chronic stress, kidney failure, and liver cirrhosis are some non-hormonal conditions that can contribute to galactorrhea.

5. Chest Wall Trauma or Surgery: In rare cases, injuries or surgeries in the chest or breast area may cause galactorrhea.

Galactorrhea can be a sign of an underlying medical condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments will depend on the underlying cause. It's important to seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and management.