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Hyperparathyroidism
Moderate
Hyperparathyroidism occurs when one or more parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone. This hormone regulates calcium levels in the blood and bones. Excess hormone can raise blood calcium and cause calcium to be released from bones. Some people have no symptoms, while others may develop kidney stones, bone problems, weakness, fatigue, or digestive symptoms.
Body System
Neck & Thyroid
When to Seek Medical Attention
Hyperparathyroidism generally requires medical evaluation and monitoring because prolonged excess parathyroid hormone can affect bones and kidneys. Seek prompt care for recurrent kidney stones, significant weakness, worsening bone pain, dehydration, or symptoms suggesting high calcium levels. Emergency assessment is appropriate for severe confusion, persistent vomiting, severe dehydration, abnormal heart symptoms, or other signs of severe hypercalcemia.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Hyperparathyroidism occurs when one or more parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone. This hormone regulates calcium levels in the blood and bones. Excess hormone can raise blood calcium and cause calcium to be released from bones. Some people have no symptoms, while others may develop kidney stones, bone problems, weakness, fatigue, or digestive symptoms.
Symptoms 3
Leg Pain
Muscle Pain
Urinary Retention
Causes 2
Hyperparathyroidism most often occurs because one or more parathyroid glands become overactive. Primary hyperparathyroidism is commonly caused by a benign enlargement or adenoma of a parathyroid gland and less commonly by multiple-gland enlargement or cancer. Secondary hyperparathyroidism develops when another condition, such as chronic kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency, causes persistent low calcium stimulation.
Chronic Disease
Hormonal Imbalance
Risk Factors
Risk depends on the type of hyperparathyroidism. Primary disease is more common with increasing age and may be associated with certain inherited endocrine disorders or previous radiation exposure to the neck. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is more likely with chronic kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, or conditions that interfere with calcium absorption.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is usually based on blood tests showing elevated calcium and parathyroid hormone levels in primary disease. Additional tests may measure phosphate, vitamin D, kidney function, and urinary calcium. Bone density testing and imaging may be used to assess complications. In secondary disease, testing focuses on identifying the underlying cause.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Some forms of hyperparathyroidism cannot be prevented
Maintaining adequate vitamin D and calcium, managing kidney disease appropriately, and treating conditions that cause chronic disturbances in calcium balance may reduce the risk of secondary disease
People with known parathyroid or endocrine disorders should follow recommended monitoring and treatment
Prevention Guidance
Some forms of hyperparathyroidism cannot be prevented. Maintaining adequate vitamin D and calcium, managing kidney disease appropriately, and treating conditions that cause chronic disturbances in calcium balance may reduce the risk of secondary disease. People with known parathyroid or endocrine disorders should follow recommended monitoring and treatment.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Leafy Vegetables
Support overall nutrition.
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants.
Whole Grains
Support balanced diet.
Foods to Avoid
Excess Calcium Supplements
May worsen high calcium levels.
Processed Foods
Less nutritious choice.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A condition involving excess parathyroid hormone production.
Bone pain, kidney stones and fatigue may occur.
Blood calcium and hormone tests are used.
Yes, prolonged disease can weaken bones.
Yes, medications or surgery may be used.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.