Hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism is generally diagnosed when a person has low levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone in their blood.

Since symptoms are often mild, healthcare providers sometimes “accidentally” find hypoparathyroidism when a routine blood screening shows the person has low levels of blood calcium.

A person is considered to have chronic hypoparathyroidism if they have low blood levels of parathyroid hormone and calcium at least twice within six months.

What tests are used to diagnose hypoparathyroidism?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hypoparathyroidism, your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history.

They may have you undergo one or more of the following tests, which can help diagnose hypoparathyroidism:

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) blood test.
Calcium blood test.
Phosphorus blood test.
Magnesium blood test.
24-hour urine test.

Your healthcare provider may have you undergo other tests to check for more serious side effects of hypoparathyroidism, including:

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to check for an abnormal heart rhythm.
A computed tomography (CT) scan to check for calcium deposits in your brain.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

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