Parathyroid Disorders

Parathyroid disorders occur when the parathyroid glands, located behind the thyroid in the neck, produce too much or too little parathyroid hormone (PTH). These small glands regulate calcium levels in the blood, which is critical for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling. When one or more of the parathyroid glands become overactive or underactive, it can cause serious calcium imbalances that impact multiple bodily systems. At Revere Health, our endocrinologists specialize in diagnosing and managing parathyroid disorders to help restore calcium balance and protect your long-term health.

Types of Parathyroid Disorders
The two most common parathyroid disorders are:

Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Occurs when one or more parathyroid glands become overactive, producing too much PTH. This leads to high calcium levels (hypercalcemia) in the blood, which can result in symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, kidney stones, bone pain, and osteoporosis. Primary hyperparathyroidism is often caused by benign tumors (adenomas) on the gland.
Hypoparathyroidism: A rare condition where the parathyroid glands produce too little PTH, leading to low calcium levels (hypocalcemia). Symptoms include tingling or numbness in the fingertips and lips, muscle cramps, and in severe cases, seizures. Hypoparathyroidism is often caused by accidental damage to the glands during neck surgery or an autoimmune condition.
Symptoms of Parathyroid Disorders
The symptoms of parathyroid disorders vary depending on whether the condition results in high or low calcium levels. Common symptoms include:

Hyperparathyroidism Symptoms: High blood calcium levels can cause weakness, fatigue, joint pain, frequent urination, excessive thirst, and digestive issues.
Hypoparathyroidism Symptoms: Low calcium levels may lead to muscle spasms, twitching, hair loss, brittle nails, and even cognitive issues like memory problems or depression.
Because these symptoms often develop gradually, many patients may not realize they have a parathyroid disorder until complications arise. Regular monitoring and early diagnosis are key to preventing serious health issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing parathyroid disorders involves blood tests to measure calcium, PTH, and vitamin D levels, along with imaging studies like ultrasound or nuclear scans to assess gland size and activity. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of the disorder:

For Hyperparathyroidism:

Monitoring: In mild cases, regular checkups and monitoring may be sufficient.
Surgery: Parathyroidectomy, or surgical removal of the overactive gland(s), is often recommended for symptomatic patients or those with significantly high calcium levels.
Medications: To manage symptoms and prevent complications in patients not eligible for surgery.
For Hypoparathyroidism:

Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: Used to maintain normal calcium levels.
Synthetic PTH: May be prescribed for severe or chronic cases to help regulate calcium levels more effectively.
Why Choose Revere Health?
At Revere Health, our endocrinologists are experienced in the evaluation and treatment of complex parathyroid disorders. We offer a patient-centered approach, using advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to manage calcium levels and prevent complications. Our goal is to help you achieve better health through expert endocrine care and ongoing support.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Revere Health today. Our team is here to help you regain control of your health and well-being.