Final answer:
Sheehan Syndrome is caused by severe bleeding during childbirth which damages the pituitary gland. Symptoms include difficulty producing breast milk, loss of menstrual cycle, fatigue and weakness, and low blood pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sheehan Syndrome
Sheehan Syndrome, also known as postpartum pituitary necrosis, is a condition that occurs when the pituitary gland is damaged due to severe bleeding during childbirth. This leads to inadequate hormone production, especially of the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. The primary cause of Sheehan Syndrome is hypovolemic shock, which occurs when there is a significant loss of blood volume during childbirth.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Sheehan Syndrome can vary depending on the extent of the pituitary damage, but commonly include:
- Difficulty producing breast milk: Due to the decreased production of prolactin, women with Sheehan Syndrome may struggle to produce breast milk or not be able to produce it at all.
- Loss of menstrual cycle: The pituitary gland plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. With Sheehan Syndrome, women may experience irregular or absent periods.
- Fatigue and weakness: Insufficient production of adrenal hormones can lead to fatigue, weakness, and a general feeling of low energy.
- Low blood pressure: In severe cases, Sheehan Syndrome can cause low blood pressure, which may lead to dizziness and fainting.