What is Hyperparathyroidism?

It occurs when the parathyroid glands produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone. What is hyperparathyroidism? can lead to increased blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia) and various health problems. It can be seen in three different ways: primary, secondary and tertiary.

Who Gets Hyperparathyroidism?

It is a disease that occurs when the parathyroid glands produce excessive PTH. It is usually seen in middle-aged and older individuals. It is especially common in women over the age of 50. However, it can also develop at a younger age due to some genetic and environmental factors.

Hormonal changes occur in women after menopause. This condition affects bone density, so the likelihood of occurrence increases. Women over the age of 50 are at higher risk than men. In patients with kidney failure, the body's production of vitamin D decreases. At the same time, the calcium-phosphorus balance is disrupted. Therefore, it can develop secondary. This condition is quite common in kidney patients.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium properly. People who do not get enough sunlight may be at increased risk. Similarly, people who are deficient in vitamin D are at risk. Certain genetic syndromes can cause abnormal growth of the parathyroid glands. People with a family history of the disease are at higher risk of developing it.

The risk may increase in individuals who have received radiation therapy to the neck area. These individuals are more likely to develop tumors in the parathyroid glands. Age, gender, kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency and genetic factors play an important role in the development of the disease. People in the risk group in particular should have regular health checks.

What are the symptoms of hyperparathyroidism?

Hyperparathyroidism, occurs when the parathyroid glands produce excessive parathyroid hormone (PTH). This disrupts the calcium balance in the body. It can cause symptoms that affect different organs. The symptoms of the disease can vary from person to person. While some patients do not show any symptoms, others may experience serious health problems.

Parathyroid hormone reduces bone density by pulling calcium from bones. This can lead to osteoporosis (bone loss) and frequent bone fractures. Bone pain and muscle weakness are also common. Pain may be felt especially in the leg and back muscles.

Excess calcium accumulation in the body can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These stones can cause severe pain. In addition, frequent urination and deterioration in kidney function can occur. If left untreated, the risk of developing kidney failure increases.

High calcium levels can also affect the stomach and intestines. Nausea, vomiting, constipation and loss of appetite are common symptoms. Some patients may be at increased risk of stomach ulcers. Hyperparathyroidism It can also affect brain functions. Memory problems, difficulty concentrating and forgetfulness may occur. Mood swings, depression, anxiety and irritability are also common symptoms. As a result, it can affect many systems in the body. It is important to see a doctor for early diagnosis when symptoms are noticed.

What Causes Hyperparathyroidism?

Hyperparathyroidismis a disease that occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too much PTH. Excessive secretion of this hormone causes blood calcium levels to rise (hypercalcemia). The factors that lead to its development are classified as primary, secondary and tertiary causes.

• Primary is caused by direct overactivity of the parathyroid glands. This condition is caused by parathyroid adenomas.
• Parathyroid adenoma is the most common cause. It occurs when a single parathyroid gland becomes enlarged.
• Parathyroid hyperplasia occurs when all of the parathyroid glands become overactive, which increases hormone production.
• Parathyroid cancer (rare) can also cause the disease. It develops due to the presence of malignant tumors in the parathyroid glands.
• Secondary develops in response to low levels of calcium in the body. The parathyroid glands produce excess PTH to increase blood calcium levels.
• Chronic kidney failure reduces the body's production of vitamin D. As a result, calcium absorption decreases.
• It develops due to vitamin D deficiency, inadequate sunlight or nutritional deficiencies. The parathyroid glands become overactive because the body cannot absorb enough calcium.
• Intestinal malabsorption disorders prevent adequate calcium absorption. Digestive disorders such as celiac or Crohn's disease may cause this.
• Tertiary develops when secondary persists for a long time. In this case, the parathyroid glands become uncontrolled and begin to produce PTH independently.
• It is usually seen in patients with long-term kidney failure. The kidneys cannot produce enough vitamin D. Therefore, the parathyroid glands continue to secrete excessive PTH.

In conclusion, hyperparathyroidism It can be caused by different reasons. Abnormal growth of the parathyroid glands, kidney diseases and vitamin D deficiency are among these reasons. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment allow the disease to be controlled.

What is Hyperparathyroidism and How is it Treated?

Hyperparathyroidism, is a disease that occurs when the parathyroid glands produce excessive PTH. This causes calcium levels in the body to rise (hypercalcemia). Since the calcium balance is disrupted, bones, kidneys, muscles and nervous system are affected. It can be seen in three different ways: primary, secondary and tertiary.

The treatment method depends on the type of disease and the patient's general health. Regular follow-up may be sufficient for mild cases. However, in advanced cases, medication or surgery may be necessary.

The most effective treatment for primary is surgery. This involves removing the overactive parathyroid glands. If there is a parathyroid adenoma, only the tumorous gland is removed. If all the glands are overactive, the doctor may remove some or all of them as appropriate. After surgery, calcium levels return to normal in most patients.

For patients who cannot undergo surgery, drug therapy may be used. Calcium meths (Cinacalcet) reduce PTH production by the parathyroid glands. Bisphosphonates reduce the risk of osteoporosis by preventing bone loss. Vitamin D supplements are used in the secondary setting. Drinking plenty of water reduces the risk of kidney stones. Foods high in calcium should be avoided. Regular exercise maintains bone health.

In conclusion, What is hyperparathyroidism? The answer to the question varies depending on the type of disease and its effects. The treatment method also depends on the type of disease. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment prevent serious complications.