“Their purpose is to regulate calcium levels in the bloodstream, which impact your bones, kidneys, and intestines,” says Omodele Hogan, MD, an endocrinologist with Penn Medicine Princeton Medicine Physicians, the primary and specialty care physician network of Penn Medicine Princeton Health. “When one or more of them become enlarged and overactive — a condition called primary hyperparathyroidism — you can develop kidney stones, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and a decline in kidney function over time.”
“The cause of the condition is unknown,” says Dr. Hogan, who is board certified in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism. “It is diagnosed in women more than men, and most often in people over 60, although it can occur in young adults. It typically causes a high level of calcium in the blood, but it can also occur in people with normal calcium levels.
Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism can include:
- Fatigue/weakness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive urination
- Confusion/forgetfulness
- Depression/anxiety
- Bone or joint pain
- Abdominal pain
When primary hyperparathyroidism is suspected, specific blood tests, a 24-hour urine test, along with a bone density test is the first step. Additionally, an x-ray or ultrasound may be ordered to check for kidney stones. If the condition is confirmed, further imaging tests are used to identify the overactive gland.
Treatments Vary
“In people with mildly elevated calcium levels, who have no symptoms, surgery is not typically recommended,” says Dr. Hogan. “Instead, we encourage them to do weight-bearing exercises regularly, talk to their doctor if they take a water pill (thiazide diuretic) since it may be helpful to switch to one that does not impact calcium levels, and be sure to drink plenty of fluids to prevent kidney stones from forming.”
Individuals who are experiencing symptoms or have moderate to severely high calcium levels are usually treated through a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the malfunctioning gland(s). A sore throat is typical following surgery, but most patients are able to resume their normal activities promptly. Over time, the remaining healthy glands usually take over the function of the gland or glands that have been removed.
To find a physician affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Health, call 1.888.742.7496, or visit www.princetonhcs.org.