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Pineal gland
3-minute read
Key facts
- Your pineal gland is a small gland in the centre of your brain.
- It makes a hormone called melatonin, which controls your sleep patterns and your internal body clock (circadian rhythms).
- Melatonin levels rise at night and fall during the day to help your body keep a daily rhythm.
- The pineal gland also supports your reproductive system, especially during puberty.
- Issues, such as cysts or tumours of the pineal gland, are rare but can lead to headaches and vision changes.
What is the pineal gland?
The pineal gland is a small gland in the centre of your brain. Its main job is to produce and release a hormone called melatonin.
Your pineal gland is part of your endocrine (hormonal) system.
What does the pineal gland do?
Your pineal gland makes a hormone called melatonin. Melatonin helps control your internal body clock, known as 'circadian rhythms'. This clock helps with your sleep and wake patterns. Melatonin levels go up when it's dark (at night) and go down when it's light.
The pineal gland also affects your reproductive system, especially during puberty.
Learn more about how jet lag can affect your internal body clock.
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What medical conditions can affect the pineal gland?
Medical conditions that can affect your pineal gland are uncommon. Cysts of the pineal gland or pineal gland tumours can sometimes develop.
Cysts and tumours may cause symptoms, such as:
- headaches
- changes in vision or problems with eye movements
- nausea and vomiting
- problems with balance or difficulty walking
- feeling drowsy or sleeping more than usual
Most pineal cysts don't lead to symptoms. They are often found by chance during an MRI scan done for other reasons.
If you have symptoms of a pineal gland problem, see your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist for diagnosis and further advice.
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Resources and support
- Hormones Australia has information and support for people with hormone conditions, including the pineal gland.
- Hormones Australia can also help you find an endocrinologist.
- Sleep Health Foundation provides information on your internal body clock (circadian rhythms).
- The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research offers information on melatonin and sleep.
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.