What does persistent headache feel like with pituitary tumour?

A pituitary tumour can be associated with a headache that is new, ongoing, or unlike your usual pain. Pressure near the forehead or behind the eyes may occur, although the location and intensity vary. Because the pituitary gland helps regulate hormones and sits close to the optic nerves, some people also develop blurred or double vision, reduced side vision, unusual thirst, menstrual changes, sexual-function changes, or unexplained tiredness. These features do not diagnose a tumour by themselves.

Book an appointment when a headache persists, changes pattern, or appears with visual or hormone-related symptoms. Bring a record of timing, triggers, pain location, vision changes, medicines, and other bodily changes. A clinician may examine your eyes and nervous system, review hormone symptoms, and arrange imaging or blood tests when indicated. Use pain medicines only as directed on the label or by your clinician.

Get emergency help for a sudden, extreme headache, sudden visual loss, new weakness, trouble speaking, collapse, confusion, or a seizure. Prompt care is also needed for severe headache with repeated vomiting, particularly when it is unlike your previous headaches.

Ask whether your visual symptoms need an eye or neurological examination, whether hormone testing is appropriate, and which changes should be reported immediately. Ask how to keep a useful headache diary while assessment is arranged.