What common disorders affect the pineal gland?

Several disorders can affect the pineal gland, disrupting melatonin production and overall brain function. One common issue is pineal gland cysts, which are usually benign and found incidentally during brain scans. They are small, fluid-filled sacs that may cause headaches, dizziness, or vision problems if they grow large.

Another condition is pineal calcification, where calcium deposits form within the gland. This is common with aging and can reduce melatonin production, leading to sleep disorders, fatigue, or disturbed circadian rhythm. Some research also links abnormal calcification to depression and neurodegenerative diseases.

Pineal tumors, though rare, can occur in the form of pineocytomas (noncancerous) or pineoblastomas (malignant). These can cause symptoms like headache, nausea, double vision, or hormonal imbalances by pressing on nearby brain structures.

Disruption of melatonin levels can also lead to insomnia, jet lag, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Maintaining good sleep hygiene and managing light exposure helps reduce mild pineal dysfunctions. For serious cases, medical evaluation, imaging tests, and treatment from a neurologist or endocrinologist are necessary to restore hormonal balance and brain health.