Understanding Sheehan's Syndrome
Being eight weeks postpartum, I recently visited my endocrinologist to go over the results of my blood tests related to my hypothyroidism. During our discussion, he probed into topics like my breastfeeding experience (noticing a drop in supply and low prolactin levels) and my recent weight fluctuations. He suggested that I undergo another blood evaluation to check for the possibility of Sheehan’s Syndrome. Here are some of the notable hormone levels: - ACTH Plasma: 107 pg/mL - Prolactin: 35.9 ng/mL - DHEAS: 49 mcg/dL I am currently awaiting results from an AM cortisol test. Although my results show some levels outside the normal range, I am uncertain about their implications. Is it possible for Sheehan’s Syndrome to present alongside elevated ACTH? I'm curious if anyone has dealt with similar test results and what diagnosis they received. My labor, delivery, and recovery journey have been fraught with challenges, leaving me feeling exhausted. My hope is to gain clarity on my situation.
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 1:50:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed after a challenging postpartum experience, especially when dealing with hormonal issues. Sheehan's Syndrome is a condition that can arise due to severe blood loss during or after childbirth, leading to damage in the pituitary gland. The concerns you have regarding your hormone levels and their implications are valid, and I’ll help clarify a few points.
Key Points:
- Sheehan's Syndrome Symptoms: This condition can present with a range of hormonal imbalances, including low levels of key hormones, fatigue, and difficulties in breastfeeding due to insufficient prolactin.
- ACTH Levels: Elevated ACTH may suggest that your body is trying to stimulate the adrenal glands, but it doesn’t definitively indicate Sheehan’s Syndrome, as this condition typically involves low cortisol levels rather than elevated ACTH alone.
Explanation:
- Prolactin Levels: Your prolactin level of 35.9 ng/mL might indicate a mild hyperprolactinemia, which can sometimes stem from stress, certain medications, or pituitary issues.
- Cortisol and ACTH: The AM cortisol test you are awaiting will be crucial. If cortisol is low and ACTH is high, this could indicate an adrenal gland issue or potentially Sheehan's Syndrome. Conversely, normal cortisol levels with high ACTH might suggest other conditions such as pituitary dysfunction.
Next Steps:
- Await AM Cortisol Results: This will provide more clarity regarding your adrenal function.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any other symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood fluctuations. This information can help tailor your care.
- Discuss Further Testing: Depending on the results of your AM cortisol test, additional hormone evaluations (like thyroid hormones, other pituitary hormones) might be recommended by your endocrinologist.
- Support and Self-Care:
- Focus on self-care through adequate hydration, nutrition, and rest.
- Join support groups or communities for new parents to share experiences and coping strategies, which can provide emotional relief.
Your situation can be complex, and it’s important to keep the lines of communication open with your healthcare team. If you have any further concerns or experience worsening symptoms, consider reaching out promptly for assistance. You're taking important steps toward understanding your health, and clarity will come with patience and informed follow-up.
Related Questions
Should I Be Concerned About Bright Green Stool?
At 21 years of age and assigned female at birth, I've experienced a peculiar gastrointestinal issue for the past two days involving stool that is an intense, vibrant green. While I've read that some green stools can be typical, this particular shade resembles something straight out of a paint swatch—almost like candy! I understand that green stool can indicate that food passed through the digestive tract too quickly. However, considering I’ve been experiencing slight constipation lately and haven't had many bowel movements, this explanation doesn't fit my situation. I'm also feeling unusually bloated, adding to my apprehension. A couple of days ago, I took an excessive dose of Benadryl (a decision I won't repeat) and I'm currently on Lexapro. Additionally, I've recently incorporated new multivitamin gummies into my routine. Generally, my bowel movements aren't affected much by food dyes, as I only notice greenish stool perhaps once a year. Thus, I find it difficult to attribute this change solely to dietary factors. Should I be worried about these symptoms, or am I perhaps overreacting?
Post-Surgery Complications: My Experience with Septoplasty, Sinusectomy, and Turbinectomy
In 2022, I visited an ear, nose, and throat specialist to address some sinusitis issues, and during that appointment, he recommended surgery for a deviated septum. While my breathing was manageable, I suspect he may have had financial incentives related to my health insurance, a realization that dawned on me only after the procedure. This occurred in October of that year. Fast forward two months to early 2023, and I found myself at the hospital, ready for surgery. As I was signing the necessary paperwork, I discovered that I was also set to undergo a sinusectomy and a turbinectomy, neither of which had been mentioned to me previously. It was rather unsettling when an accompanying staff member made a remark just before I lost consciousness from the anesthesia, saying, "It’s going to get cold in here." Weeks into my recovery, I noticed something felt off. My vocal coach advised me to apply hydrogen peroxide in my nostrils, which resulted in a burning sensation not only in my nostrils but also at the base of my brain, leading to significant pain and a wave of sickness thereafter. It left me wondering if there was a leak somewhere between my nostrils and my brain, a terrifying thought given the situation. I felt remarkably unfortunate, as this combination of events could imply either a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak or a perforation threatening my brain. Sometimes I experience dizziness, and when I lay down to administer saline solution into my nostrils, I can strangely sense it reaching the base of my head, providing momentary relief despite being a bizarre sensation. Nevertheless, my overall well-being is declining; I’ve been experiencing persistent tinnitus and a growing sense of disconnection from reality. I underwent several tests, and the outcomes have been puzzling, as noted in some images I had taken. Many doctors I consulted offered little insight regarding the results. Living in Brazil presents challenges in medical care, especially for conditions like mine—most local physicians seem focused on treating trivial ailments such as mild colds or allergies. From what I could infer, the sinusectomy was performed on the right side of my nose. Additionally, at the conclusion of 2023, I visited a different ear, nose, and throat specialist who, during a check-up, extracted a large bone fragment from my right nostril. Its cartilage was thin and approximately the length of my thumb, which unfortunately worsened my breathing post-removal. I can’t help but wonder if the surgeon utilized this cartilage for reconstruction or repair during the initial operation. It seems to me that the base of my skull might be compromised, particularly the bone extending from the spine to the brain, especially in the area adjacent to my nostrils. I could really use some guidance on this matter. I’m 173 cm tall and weigh about 68 kg. Early in 2024, I experienced a head injury when I was assaulted during an attempted robbery; I’m uncertain if this could be affecting my situation now. At the start of the year, I was also diagnosed with mild degeneration of the intervertebral disk at the C5-C6 level, and I ponder whether this is related to my post-operative complications. There are times when my nostrils emit an unpleasant odor during breathing, particularly noticeable when I irrigate them with saline solution, especially from the right side. I would appreciate any insights regarding what I might be facing.
Seeking Insights on My Autoimmune Test Results
Age: 27, Location: Australia Conditions: Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) I recently underwent testing for nuclear antibodies, and the findings revealed a positive speckled Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) with a titer of 1:320. I'm currently awaiting my appointment with a rheumatologist, but I would love to hear any opinions or insights from others regarding these results.
Concern Over Pain-Free Lumps Beneath the Jaw
Hello, I’m a 21-year-old female. Recently, I discovered a hard, painless lump positioned under my jawline, along the curve of my neck. This lump does not shift when I swallow. I’ve now identified a second lump right below the initial one. Here are some specifics about my situation: - Both lumps are firm and do not cause any discomfort. - Their movement beneath the skin appears quite limited. - I haven’t experienced any recent illnesses, throat pain, or dental problems. - I am currently on levothyroxine for my hypothyroidism and recently underwent a change in dosage. - Additionally, I’ve noticed an increase in hair loss lately. - I have no symptoms of fever, unintended weight loss, or night sweats. I’m feeling quite anxious since the lumps haven’t disappeared and a second one has appeared. Should I seek a neck ultrasound promptly, or is it a matter that can afford to wait? I appreciate any advice you can provide.
Black Spot Observed on Tonsil
A 29-year-old female currently taking Lexapro and semaglutide has noticed a small black dot on her tonsil. This individual frequently inspects her tonsils due to recurring tonsil stones. The black spot is persistent and does not come off when she attempts to clean it with a cotton swab. Additionally, she has previously consulted a physician about another spot on her tonsil, marked in red. The doctor suggested it might be a ruptured blood vessel, although there are concerns since this spot appears to be enlarging. Furthermore, she underwent an oral cancer screening within the past year, which returned normal results.