Hyperparathyroidism Overview and Treatment Options
Hyperparathyroidism causes high calcium levels and can harm bones, kidneys, and overall health. Learn about its types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and effective treatment options including surgery, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition where the parathyroid glands (four tiny glands in your neck) produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). This hormone helps regulate calcium levels in your blood and bones. When too much PTH is released, it can lead to high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), which can affect your bones, kidneys, and overall health.
Types of Hyperparathyroidism
1. Primary Hyperparathyroidism: The most common type, caused by a non-cancerous tumor (adenoma) in one or more parathyroid glands.
2. Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: Occurs due to another condition (like kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency) that lowers calcium levels, forcing the parathyroid glands to overwork.
3. Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism: A rare form seen in people with long-term kidney problems, where the glands keep producing excess PTH even after calcium levels normalize.
Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism
Many people with hyperparathyroidism experience mild or no symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, as calcium levels rise, symptoms may include:
- Bone and muscle issues: Weak bones (osteoporosis), bone pain, muscle weakness.
- Kidney problems: Frequent urination, kidney stones, or even kidney damage.
- Digestive troubles: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or loss of appetite.
- Neurological effects: Fatigue, depression, memory problems, or confusion.
- General discomfort: Excessive thirst, joint pain, and high blood pressure.
If you notice these symptoms, especially if they persist, it’s important to consult a doctor.
Causes and Risk Factors
Primary Hyperparathyroidism Causes:
- A benign tumor (adenoma) in one or more glands.
- Enlarged parathyroid glands (hyperplasia).
- Rarely, parathyroid cancer.
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Causes:
- Chronic kidney disease (reduces calcium absorption).
- Severe vitamin D deficiency (needed for calcium absorption).
- Poor calcium intake in the diet.
Risk Factors:
- Being over 50 years old.
- Being female (women are more likely to develop it).
- Having a family history of hyperparathyroidism.
- Previous radiation exposure to the neck.
Diagnosis and Tests
If your doctor suspects hyperparathyroidism, they may recommend:
1. Blood tests: To check calcium, PTH, vitamin D, and kidney function.
2. Urine tests: To measure calcium excretion.
3. Bone density scan (DEXA): To check for osteoporosis.
4. Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT, or Sestamibi scan to locate abnormal glands.
Early diagnosis helps prevent complications like bone loss and kidney damage.
Treatment Options
The treatment depends on the type and severity of hyperparathyroidism.
1. Primary Hyperparathyroidism Treatment
Surgery (Parathyroidectomy): The most effective treatment, where the overactive gland(s) are removed. It’s minimally invasive with a quick recovery.
- Medications: If surgery isn’t an option, drugs like Cinacalcet help control calcium levels.
- Monitoring: If calcium is only slightly high and symptoms are mild, doctors may recommend regular check-ups without immediate surgery.
2. Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Treatment
- Vitamin D and calcium supplements: To correct deficiencies.
- Phosphate binders: If kidney disease is the cause.
- Medications: Like calcimimetics to lower PTH levels.
Consult Top Specialist
3. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes
- Stay hydrated: Helps prevent kidney stones.
- Exercise regularly: Strengthens bones and muscles.
- Limit high-calcium foods (if advised by a doctor).
- Avoid dehydration: Drink plenty of water.
- Monitor vitamin D levels: Sun exposure and supplements may help.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Persistent fatigue, bone pain, or muscle weakness.
- Frequent kidney stones.
- Unexplained high calcium levels in blood tests.
- Early treatment can prevent complications like osteoporosis and kidney damage.
How Apollo24|7 Can Help
If you suspect hyperparathyroidism or need expert advice, Apollo24|7 offers:
- Consultations with endocrinologists: Specialists in hormone-related conditions.
- Diagnostic tests: Blood tests, imaging, and bone density scans.
- Personalized treatment plans: Including surgical and non-surgical options.
- You can easily book a consultation or schedule tests through the Apollo24|7 app or website.
Final Thoughts
Hyperparathyroidism is a manageable condition with the right diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms or have risk factors, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Early intervention can help you maintain strong bones, healthy kidneys, and overall well-being.
Consult Top Specialist
Consult Top Specialist
Dr. Mohammed Kamran
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS, FIDM
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. Ramya Hari
General Practitioner
18 Years • Medical Head & Family Physician, DG Shipping Approved Doctor, Panel Physician - UK Visa Medicals
Chennai
Apollo Medical Centre Kotturpuram, Chennai
Dr. Haripriya Jagadeesh
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, AB (Family Physician)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
Consult Top Specialist
Dr. Mohammed Kamran
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS, FIDM
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. Ramya Hari
General Practitioner
18 Years • Medical Head & Family Physician, DG Shipping Approved Doctor, Panel Physician - UK Visa Medicals
Chennai
Apollo Medical Centre Kotturpuram, Chennai
Dr. Haripriya Jagadeesh
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, AB (Family Physician)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
