Hypoparathyroidism Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What Is Hypoparathyroidism ?

Hypoparathyroidism is a rare condition marked by abnormal secretion of parathyroid hormone.

Characterized by low secretion of PTH, Hypoparathyroidism can increase the risk of developing kidney stones and chronic kidney diseases.

PTH plays an integral part in the regulation and maintenance of two minerals in the body, namely calcium and phosphorus, and may play a part in the production of vitamin D. Every individual has four glands in the neck which produce PTH.

Hypoparathyroidism can therefore lead to abnormally low levels of ionized calcium and a high level of serum phosphorus in the blood and bones.

Possible symptoms may range from cramping to twitching of muscles (involuntary muscle contraction).

Treatment of Hypoparathyroidism mainly consists of intake of iron supplements in order to overcome the effects of Hypoparathyroidism.

Causes Of Hypoparathyroidism:

Causes of Hypoparathyroidism may include the following:

Injury or removal of the parathyroid glands
Development of DiGeorge syndrome
Genetics- it may run in families
Development of autoimmune disease
cancer radiation treatments, specifically to the neck
A defect in the calcium receptor may lead to a rare congenital form of the disease
Hemochromatosis can lead to iron accumulation and consequent dysfunction of parathyroid.
low magnesium levels

Possible risk factors may include:

having had a neck surgery recently
A family history of hypoparathyroidism
Having certain endocrine conditions, including Addison’s disease

Symptoms Of Hypoparathyroidism:

Many of the symptoms are caused by low level of ionized calcium in the blood. Possible symptoms may include:

muscle aches or cramps
tingling, burning, or numbness in the fingertips, toes, and lips
muscle spasms
patchy hair loss
dry skin
brittle nails
fatigue
anxiety or depression
painful menstruation
seizures
Fatigue or weakness
Brittle nails
Headaches
Memory problems

Diagnosis Of Hypoparathyroidism:

Hypoparathyroidism can be diagnosed via:

Blood tests, to check the level of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and PTH in the system
Urine test, to determine if excess level of calcium is being secreted
Electrocardiogram, to detect abnormal heart rhythm
X-rays, to determine the extent to which bones of the affected individual have been affected.