Hyperparathyroidism: What It Is and How to Handle It

If your doctor mentioned hyperparathyroidism, you might wonder what that even means. In plain terms, it’s when the parathyroid glands – four tiny glands in your neck – make too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). Too much PTH pushes calcium levels up in your blood, and that can cause a bunch of annoying symptoms.

What Is Hyperparathyroidism?

The parathyroid glands keep a close eye on calcium, which is vital for bone health, nerve signals, and muscle function. When calcium drops, they release PTH to bring it back up. In hyperparathyroidism, something goes wrong and the glands keep cranking out PTH even when calcium is already high.

There are two main types. Primary hyperparathyroidism usually starts because one gland grows a little too big or develops a benign tumor. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a reaction to another problem, like kidney disease, that keeps calcium low, so the glands overwork. A third, less common, type is tertiary, where long‑standing secondary disease eventually makes the glands act on their own.

Typical signs include tiredness, frequent bathroom trips, weak bones, and sometimes kidney stones. Some people just feel “off” – a vague ache in the hips, groin, or ribs. Others notice they’re getting fractures more easily. If you’ve had a bone density test, a low score could be a clue.

How It’s Diagnosed and Treated

Doctors start with a simple blood test. High calcium paired with high PTH usually nails the diagnosis. They might also order an ultrasound or a specialized scan (called a Sestamibi scan) to see which gland is overactive.

Treatment depends on how severe your case is. If you have mild symptoms and normal bone health, your doctor may suggest watching and checking labs every six months. This “monitor‑and‑wait” approach works for many people.

When calcium gets too high or you develop kidney stones, bone loss, or a weakened gut, surgery becomes the go‑to option. A minimally invasive operation can remove the problematic gland, and most patients feel better quickly. If surgery isn’t possible, medications like calcimimetics can lower PTH levels.

Lifestyle tweaks help, too. Stay hydrated, limit soda and high‑salt foods, and get enough vitamin D (but not too much). Weight‑bearing exercises strengthen bones, and a diet rich in leafy greens provides magnesium, which supports parathyroid health.

Remember, hyperparathyroidism is manageable. With the right tests, a clear treatment plan, and a few everyday habits, you can keep calcium in check and feel a lot better. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned, talk to your doctor – early detection makes a big difference.