Parathyroid & Calcium Disorders: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Parathyroid and calcium disorders are often misunderstood but can significantly affect bone health, kidney function, nerves, and overall well-being. Many patients are surprised to learn that problems with calcium levels in the blood are frequently caused by the parathyroid glands, not the thyroid.

At Passion Health Primary Care, our physicians help patients identify, diagnose, and manage parathyroid disorders early to prevent long-term complications.

What Are the Parathyroid Glands?

The parathyroid glands are four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. Despite their name, they serve a completely different function than the thyroid.

Their primary role is to regulate calcium levels in the blood through the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH).

What Does the Parathyroid Hormone Do?

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) helps maintain calcium balance by:

• Releasing calcium from bones into the bloodstream

• Increasing calcium absorption in the intestines

• Reducing calcium loss through the kidneys

When PTH levels are abnormal, calcium levels may become too high or too low—both of which can cause serious symptoms.

High Blood Calcium: What Does It Mean?

High blood calcium, also called hypercalcemia, is one of the most common signs of parathyroid problems.

Common Causes of High Blood Calcium

• Overactive parathyroid glands (primary hyperparathyroidism)

• Parathyroid tumors or enlargement

• Certain medications

• Dehydration

• Kidney disease

Persistent high calcium levels should never be ignored.

Symptoms of High Blood Calcium

Symptoms may be mild at first and worsen over time. Common signs include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Bone pain or fractures

• Kidney stones

• Frequent urination

• Constipation

• Nausea

• Depression or confusion

Many patients are diagnosed after routine blood tests reveal elevated calcium levels.

Parathyroid Problems Explained

Parathyroid problems occur when one or more glands produce too much or too little parathyroid hormone.

Types of Parathyroid Disorders

Primary Hyperparathyroidism

• Most common condition

• One or more glands become overactive

• Leads to high calcium levels

Hypoparathyroidism

• Parathyroid glands produce too little hormone

• Causes low blood calcium

• Often occurs after neck surgery

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

• Caused by chronic kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency

• Glands overproduce hormone in response to low calcium

Hypoparathyroidism: Low Calcium Disorder

Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the body does not produce enough parathyroid hormone, leading to low calcium levels.

Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism

• Muscle cramps or spasms

• Tingling in fingers, toes, or lips

• Seizures in severe cases

• Fatigue

• Anxiety

This condition requires careful medical management to avoid complications.

Parathyroid Hormone Level High: Symptoms to Watch For

When parathyroid hormone levels are high, symptoms may include:

• Bone thinning or osteoporosis

• Joint pain

• Kidney stones

• Abdominal pain

• Memory issues or “brain fog”

These symptoms often develop slowly, making early diagnosis important.

Parathyroid Swelling in the Neck

Some patients may notice parathyroid swelling in the neck, which can feel like:

• A lump near the thyroid area

• Fullness or pressure in the neck

• Discomfort when swallowing

Swelling may indicate gland enlargement or, in rare cases, a tumor. Any neck swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Parathyroid Removal: When Is Surgery Needed?

Parathyroid removal (parathyroidectomy) may be recommended when:

• Calcium levels remain consistently high

• Bone density is declining

• Kidney stones develop

• Symptoms interfere with daily life

Surgery is often curative for primary hyperparathyroidism and can significantly improve quality of life.

What Happens After Parathyroid Surgery?

After surgery:

• Calcium levels usually normalize

• Symptoms often improve quickly

• Temporary calcium supplementation may be required

• Regular follow-up ensures stable hormone levels

Most patients recover well with proper medical monitoring.

How Are Parathyroid Disorders Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically includes:

• Blood tests (calcium, PTH, vitamin D)

• Urine calcium testing

• Bone density scans

• Imaging studies when needed

Primary care providers often identify parathyroid disorders first through routine lab work.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Untreated parathyroid disorders can lead to:

• Osteoporosis and fractures

• Kidney damage

• Heart rhythm problems

• Cognitive changes

Early diagnosis and treatment prevent irreversible complications.

Managing Parathyroid & Calcium Disorders

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the disorder.

Management Options May Include:

• Monitoring calcium and hormone levels

• Vitamin D or calcium supplementation

• Medication adjustments

• Referral for surgical evaluation when necessary

Not all parathyroid problems require surgery, but all require medical oversight.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should schedule an appointment if you experience:

• Persistent fatigue

• Bone or joint pain

• Kidney stones

• Muscle cramps or tingling

• Abnormal calcium levels on lab tests

• Neck swelling

Primary care evaluation is the first step toward proper diagnosis.

Parathyroid & Calcium Care at Passion Health Primary Care

At Passion Health Primary Care, we provide:

• Evaluation of abnormal calcium levels

• Diagnosis of parathyroid disorders

• Long-term monitoring and management

• Coordination with specialists when needed

• Preventive bone and kidney health care

We serve patients throughout Irving, Plano, Frisco, Prosper, Aubrey, Kaufman, Flower Mound, Ennis, and surrounding Texas communities.Schedule an Appointment

If you have symptoms of calcium imbalance or concerns about parathyroid health, our team is here to help.

Schedule your appointment with Passion Health Primary Care today.