Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism is an endocrinological disease caused by an excessive content of parathyroid hormone. Such an imbalance leads to a change in the level of trace elements of calcium and phosphorus in the body. As with most other diseases of the endocrine system, hyperparatheriosis occurs as a result of a violation of the activity of the parathyroid glands. Women are more susceptible to this disease.
The parathyroid glands maintain the necessary levels of calcium and phosphorus through the production of parathyroid hormone (PTH). In diseases of the thyroid or parathyroid glands, the production of PTH can increase significantly. This leads to a decrease in phosphorus levels and at the same time an increase in the level of calcium in the blood.
The causes of such failures in the body can be:
vitamin D or calcium deficiency in the body;
poisoning with toxic substances;
exposure to radiation (including radiation therapy);
menopause;
hereditary predisposition.
Hyperparathyroidism is usually divided into the following forms:
primary hyperparathyroidism is characterized by excessive hormone production caused by a malfunction of one or more parathyroid glands. The failure is a consequence of a malfunction or the presence of a disease of the thyroid gland itself;
secondary hyperparathyroidism – initially performs a compensating function. It is a consequence of any disease that causes a decrease in calcium levels, for example, kidney failure, vitamin D deficiency, etc.;
some sources also mention the tertiary form of hyperparatheriosis, which is a tumor of the parathyroid gland (glands). This tumor develops against the background of secondary hyperparathyroidism.
SYMPTOMS OF HYPERPARATHYROIDISM
Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism can be both mild and cause serious discomfort to its owner. Symptoms of heperparathyroidism include:
frequent urination;
formation of kidney stones;
increased bone fragility;
pain in bones, joints;
abdominal pain;
deterioration of nails, teeth
malaise, weakness, fatigue, low working capacity;
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
changes in blood pressure level.
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF HYPERPARATHYROIDISM
Diagnosis begins with the collection of complaints and examination of the patient by an endocrinologist. During the survey, special importance is attached to the general well-being of the patient, and it is also clarified whether he has recently had bone fractures or bone growths. Next , the following types of laboratory examinations are prescribed:
biochemical blood test to determine the level of phosphorus, calcium;
blood test for hormones – determination of PTH level;
urine analysis to determine the level of calcium in it;
ultrasound examination of the neck, thyroid gland;
computer or magnetic resonance imaging of the thyroid gland.
Treatment is prescribed by the attending physician depending on the stage of the disease. If the disease is mild, it is enough to have an endocrinologist and periodic monitoring of the level of PTH and calcium in the blood.
With tumors of the parathyroid glands, as well as in the late stages of the disease, surgical intervention is indicated. All affected glands are removed and calcium and vitamin D preparations are prescribed. This is one of the most effective ways to treat this disease.
Hormone replacement therapy is prescribed to women who have menopause as the cause of hyperparathyroidism.
