Hyperparathyroidism

Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which one or more of the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone. These small glands are located in the neck near the thyroid and help regulate calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels in the body.

Excess parathyroid hormone causes calcium levels in the blood to rise. High calcium can affect bones, kidneys, digestive organs, and the nervous system. Hyperparathyroidism may develop slowly and be discovered during routine blood tests, or it may cause noticeable symptoms over time.

The condition is classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary, depending on the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help prevent long-term complications.

Symptoms

Some people with hyperparathyroidism have no symptoms, especially in early stages. When symptoms occur, they often develop gradually and may vary in severity.

Common symptoms include:

• Weak bones that fracture easily

• Bone and joint pain

• Kidney stones

• Frequent urination

• Excessive thirst

• Fatigue and weakness

• Depression or mood changes

• Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

• Nausea or constipation

Symptoms are often related to elevated calcium levels in the blood.

Causes

The cause of hyperparathyroidism depends on the type of the condition.

Primary hyperparathyroidism is usually caused by a benign growth called an adenoma on one of the parathyroid glands. Less commonly, it may result from enlargement of multiple glands or, rarely, parathyroid cancer.

Secondary hyperparathyroidism occurs when another condition causes low calcium levels, leading the parathyroid glands to work harder. Common causes include:

• Chronic kidney disease

• Vitamin D deficiency

• Poor calcium absorption

Tertiary hyperparathyroidism develops when secondary hyperparathyroidism becomes long-standing and the glands continue to overproduce hormone even after the original cause is treated.

Risk factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing hyperparathyroidism.

Risk factors include:

• Being female

• Increasing age, especially over 50

• Vitamin D deficiency

• Chronic kidney disease

• Exposure to radiation therapy involving the neck

• Certain inherited genetic conditions

People with these risk factors may benefit from regular monitoring of calcium levels.

Complications

Untreated hyperparathyroidism can lead to serious complications affecting multiple body systems.

Possible complications include:

• Osteoporosis and bone fractures

• Recurrent kidney stones

• Reduced kidney function

• High blood pressure

• Heart rhythm abnormalities

• Peptic ulcers

• Cognitive and emotional changes

The risk of complications increases with prolonged elevation of calcium levels.

Prevention

Not all cases of hyperparathyroidism can be prevented, especially those caused by genetic or gland-related abnormalities. However, some steps may reduce the risk of complications or secondary forms.

Preventive measures may include:

• Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels

• Ensuring sufficient dietary calcium intake

• Managing chronic kidney disease effectively

• Staying hydrated to reduce kidney stone risk

• Regular health checkups with blood calcium testing when advised

Early detection and appropriate treatment play an important role in preventing long-term damage associated with hyperparathyroidism.