Underproduction of hormones

 This is also know as hypopituitarism. A lack of any one of the pituitary hormones can have a significant effect on the body however this is often easily treated.  This is generally treated by replacing the hormones normally produced by the glands which the pituitary controls.

Lack of Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)

SYMPTOMS : fatigue and light-headedness. General loss in feeling of well-being.

TREATMENT: Hydrocortisone (synthetic version of cortisol) taken in a tablet form daily.

Lack of Gonadotrophins (LH and FSH) 

 SYMPTOMS:

IN WOMEN -  causes problems with the menstrual cycle, fertility and sex drive.

IN MEN - problems with fertility, impotence and sex drive.

There may also be a general feeling of tiredness in both sexes.

TREAMENT:

IN WOMEN – Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which may involve hormone injects once or twice a month.

CHILDREN – Those with limited gonadotrophins have delayed or do not go through puberty. They may required treatment with sex hormones to induce the changes which would normally occur at puberty.

Lack of Growth hormone (GH)

SYMPTOMS: In children - lack of growth hormone will mean that the child is smaller than average, may look younger and be overweight.
In Adults – Lack of GH can lead to a decrease in general energy levels. Can also lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis and even heart disease.

 TREATMENT: The daily injection of a synthesis growth hormone. This starts in childhood and it is often necessary to carry this right into adult hood.

Lack of Prolactin (PRL)

There are usually few symptoms or problems caused by a lack of prolactin, although women with low prolactin may find they are unable to breastfeed.

Lack of Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) 

SYMPTOMS: Lack of this hormone will cause they thyroid to be underactive  (Hypothyroidism). Fatigue and weight gain are common problems.

 TREATMENT: hormone tablets (thyroxine) taken daily.

Lack of vasopressin (or ADH) results in DIABETES INSIPIDUS

CAUSE: inflammation of the hypothalamus. Taken temporarily occur after neurosurgery.

SYMPTOMS: Continual thirst and need to pass water, all the time

TREATMENT: This is usually done by administering a substance called Desmopressin, which has the same effect on the kidneys as ADH