Pituitary tumour v brain tumour
The Pituitary Foundation supports the position that pituitary tumours are not brain tumours.
There is a great deal of debate on this subject and we understand that for many pituitary patients the distinction is an important one.
Our medical committee lead our understanding of endocrinology. They are clear that while the pituitary is in close proximity to the brain, it is not part of the brain.
Price hikes of medicines
The Pituitary Foundation does not condone nor support price hikes relating to any medicines. The costs of medicines are of concern to patients and the NHS alike, and there needs to be robust governance around the pricing of medicines.
The Pituitary Foundation also supports awareness being raised around price hikes of medicines so that governance can be improved. We feel that fair pricing of medicines is important to ensure patients have access to the medicines they need.
Unjust price hikes have damaging consequences to the NHS and cause stress to patients who can see there may be difficulties in continuing to receive an essential medication that they rely on.
Personal campaigns and individual circumstances
The Pituitary Foundation cannot support nor take on any personal awareness campaigns within the NHS, other government agencies, or amongst the general public.
We cannot provide individualised case management for patients or family members.
We cannot intervene in any circumstance faced by individual members of our community with anyone, including employers and medical professionals. Nor can we assist members with procuring medical appointments or tests and we cannot evaluate cases and provide expert diagnosis or treatment advice.
Pituitary conditions and ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
For patients with ME or CFS, some of the symptoms they might experience can be non-specific, similarly to symptoms found in pituitary conditions. The reality is that pituitary conditions are relatively rare and there is no conclusive research to indicate a prevalence of pituitary conditions amongst those with ME or CFS. The Pituitary Foundation suggests ME or CFS patients who believe they have a pituitary condition should see their GP to discuss their symptoms and ask for blood tests relating to pituitary function.
Complementary and alternative therapies
The terms complementary and alternative therapies refer to a diverse group of practices and products not considered part of evidence based, conventional medicine. Some alternative medicines or treatments are based on principles and an evidence base that are not recognised by the scientific community.
Therefore, The Pituitary Foundation wishes to remain neutral on the usefulness of complementary and alternative therapies. However, we recognise some practices have been reported to improve the quality of life for some pituitary patients such as relaxation techniques and art for health.
Product endorsement
The Pituitary Foundation does not recommend, endorse nor promote any products, treatments, consultants or companies. Nor do we offer a negative judgement on a product or person. If it is ever appropriate to make a suggestion we would always attempt to offer details of more than one company.
Head injury and pituitary dysfunction
Traumatic brain injury is common. Pituitary dysfunction following this may occur and is a serious consequence. We would therefore advise that you contact your GP if you have any concerns and experience some of the following symptoms: mild headaches, feeling sick, problems concentrating, poor memory, irritability, tiredness, problems sleeping, lack of appetite, sexual and fertility difficulties, depression, an increased thirst and excessive urinating.
