Causes and risk factors
Sheehan’s syndrome involves necrosis and shrinking of pituitary gland due to lack of blood supply to it. Blood lost during child birth causes this condition. Thus the gland can’t carry out its functions properly. It is responsible for various functions such as milk production and secretion after delivery, reproductive functions, functioning of thyroid and pituitary gland. Risk factors for Sheehan’s syndrome are those which can cause PPH. Placental abnormalities, multiple pregnancies can lead to PPH.
Clinical presentation
Symptoms of Sheehan’s syndrome appear slowly. Lack of hormones secreted by the pituitary gland cause various hormonal disturbances. Symptoms include lack of breast milk, scanty menstruation. There is loss of pubic hair or axillary hair. Patient shows slow mental function, weight gain. She experiences low BP, lethargy, fatigue, loss of interest in sex etc.
Investigation
Detail Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine blood tests are recommended. A pituitary hormone stimulation test is advised. Imaging studies such as CT or MRI scan of brain may be useful for further evaluation and examining the size of pituitary gland.
Treatment
Treatment involves hormone replacement therapy i.e. replacement of oestrogen, progesterone till menopause is reached. Other hormones like thyroid and adrenal may be required to be taken for life time. Medications like corticosteroid drugs will also help in managing Sheehan’s syndrome.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating Sheehan’s syndrome. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating Sheehan’s syndrome.
