Parathyroid disease is serious
Q: I’m a 45-yearold woman who may have parathyroid disease. Is this serious? A: “Yes, parathyroid disease, known as hyperparathyroidism, is a significant malfunction of the parathyroid glands,” says Tom Thomas, D.O., a board-certified physician specializing in Endocrinology at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “Unmanaged hyperparathyroidism can lead to osteoporosis, high blood pressure, kidney stones, kidney failure, stroke, cardiovascular issues, and other health problems.”
Hyperparathyroidism.
“Hyperparathyroidism is an excess of parathyroid hormone in the bloodstream due to overactivity of one or more of the body’s four parathyroid glands,” Dr. Thomas explains. “This hormone helps maintain an appropriate balance of calcium in the bloodstream. Overproduction results in high levels of calcium, leading to a variety health problems.”
Symptoms.
Dr. Thomas says symptoms, which may be dismissed in the early stages, can progress to kidney stones, excessive urination, abdominal pain, chronic fatigue, forgetfulness, joint pain, hair loss, nausea, and vomiting.
Risk factors.
He says you may be at increased risk if you: • Have gone through menopause • Have chronic vitamin D deficiency • Had cancer treatment exposing
your neck to radiation
See an endocrinologist.
“Because hyperparathyroidism indicators can be challenging to diagnose, it’s best to see an endocrinologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment,” concludes Dr. Thomas, who cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic locations in Clear Lake, Meyerland,
Pasadena, and Pearland.