Parathyroid glands are situated in the neck and produce “parathyroid hormone” or PTH that helps in regulating the amount of calcium in the blood.

Causes

Head and neck surgery for removal of the parathyroid gland for cancer is the major cause of hypoparathyroidism.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend upon the cause of hypoparathyroidism.

  • After head and neck surgery:
    – Tingling of hands and feet and around the mouth.
    – Unusual body movements.
    – Muscle cramp.
    – Tiredness.
    – Mood swings such as anxiety, depression.
  • Hypoparathyroidism caused by other medical conditions:
    – Eye problems such as cataracts.
    – Dry and thick skin.
    – Coarse hair and hair loss cause bald spots.
    – Fingernails that break easily.

Diagnostic Tests

After learning about the symptoms, the doctor will perform a physical examination and will advise for the tests such as:

  • Blood test to check for calcium levels and PTH levels in the body.
  • Also, some tests to check for Vit D and other minerals in the body.
  • Urine test to check for magnesium and calcium levels in the blood.

Treatment

Treatment for short-term hypoparathyroidism:

  • Vit D and calcium supplements are the main lines of treatment.
  • Diuretics medications that prevent calcium loss in urine.

If a person has permanent hypothyroidism, then he/she might need parathyroid hormone replacement in the form of shots, but it is very expensive.