Overview
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the parathyroid glands, located behind the thyroid gland in the neck, produce too much parathyroid hormone. This hormone helps regulate calcium levels in the blood and various tissues. There are two types of hyperparathyroidism: primary, caused by an enlargement of one or more parathyroid glands, and secondary, resulting from another underlying disease that first lowers calcium levels in the body. High calcium levels can lead to various health problems, and surgery is commonly used to treat primary hyperparathyroidism. Common symptoms may include fatigue, bone pain, depression, and frequent illness. If you experience any signs or symptoms of hyperparathyroidism, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for a prompt and accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of hyperparathyroidism can be mild to severe and may include:
- Fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Increased sleepiness
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness
- Problems with memory or concentration
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) It's important to see a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms or if you have an elevated calcium level in your blood tests. Hyperparathyroidism can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing primary hyperparathyroidism include:
- Being a woman who has gone through menopause
- Having had prolonged, severe calcium or vitamin D deficiency For secondary hyperparathyroidism, the most common cause is chronic kidney failure. In people with long-term secondary hyperparathyroidism and end-stage kidney disease, the parathyroid glands may enlarge, leading to tertiary hyperparathyroidism, which requires surgery to remove parathyroid tissue.
Development
Primary hyperparathyroidism develops when one or more of the parathyroid glands enlarge or have a noncancerous growth (adenoma), causing overproduction of parathyroid hormone. This leads to high calcium levels and low phosphorus levels in the blood. Secondary hyperparathyroidism occurs due to another disease that first causes low calcium levels in the body, such as chronic kidney failure or certain intestinal surgeries or diseases. The parathyroid glands then overwork to produce high amounts of parathyroid hormone to maintain or restore the calcium level to the standard range. Tertiary hyperparathyroidism, which is rare, happens in people with long-term secondary hyperparathyroidism, usually from end-stage kidney disease, where the parathyroid glands enlarge and begin to release parathyroid hormone on their own, leading to high blood calcium levels.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if hyperparathyroidism is suspected. This is because hyperparathyroidism can cause a variety of symptoms, and it is important to get a prompt, accurate diagnosis and the right treatment to prevent potential complications.
Diagnosis
To diagnose hyperparathyroidism, your healthcare provider will likely start with blood tests to check your calcium levels. If the results show high calcium levels, they will likely repeat the test after an overnight fast. They will also check your levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), as high levels of PTH along with high calcium levels can confirm hyperparathyroidism. Additionally, your healthcare provider may order more tests, such as an ultrasound, to rule out other conditions and determine the severity of hyperparathyroidism.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of hyperparathyroidism are mainly related to the long-term effect of too little calcium in your bones and too much calcium in your bloodstream. Potential complications include osteoporosis, kidney stones, and decreased bone density. High calcium levels can also lead to kidney damage, heart problems, and increased risk of developing other health issues.
Home Remedies
There are no specific home remedies suggested for hyperparathyroidism, as it is a medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional. Treatment for hyperparathyroidism typically involves surgery, medications, or lifestyle changes, depending on the underlying cause of the condition. However, some general lifestyle modifications that may support overall health and potentially help manage symptoms include:
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Engaging in regular physical activity to support bone health
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing
- Getting adequate sleep and rest
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption If you suspect you have hyperparathyroidism or experience any symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
Treatment
There are two main types of hyperparathyroidism: primary and secondary. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. For primary hyperparathyroidism, the most common treatment is surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands. The goal of surgery is to normalize the high calcium levels in the blood and prevent further complications. In some cases, a non-surgical approach may be considered, such as careful monitoring, medication, or a combination of both. For secondary hyperparathyroidism, the underlying cause, such as kidney disease or an intestinal disorder, needs to be addressed first. The goal of treatment is to manage the underlying condition and control the high calcium levels. Medications, dietary changes, or other interventions may be recommended to manage the symptoms of hyperparathyroidism. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on the individual's specific case and overall health.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for hyperparathyroidism, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do before you arrive.
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing: Include any symptoms that may seem unrelated to hyperparathyroidism.
- Note down key personal information: This includes any recent surgeries, medications you're taking, and other medical conditions or treatments you've received.
- Make a list of your family medical history: Include any history of thyroid disorders, thyroid cancer, or exposure to radiation.
- Compile a list of questions to ask your health care provider: Examples of questions to ask include whether nodules that don't cause problems need treatment, what treatment options are available, and whether you should see a specialist in hormone disorders (endocrinologist). Remember to bring a family member or friend with you for support and to help you remember the information provided during the appointment.