Parathyroid Disorders

The parathyroid glands are usually four tiny glands near the thyroid in your neck. They produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps keep calcium in a healthy range. PTH supports calcium balance by helping your body release calcium from bones, reabsorb calcium in the kidneys, and activate vitamin D to improve calcium absorption.

Hyperparathyroidism happens when one or more parathyroid glands make too much PTH, which can raise blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia). Over time, high calcium can affect bones and kidneys and may cause symptoms—or it may be found on routine lab work.

Symptoms vary, but common issues linked to hyperparathyroidism and high calcium include: Kidney stones; Bone thinning/osteoporosis; Fatigue or weakness; Abdominal pain, nausea, or constipation; Frequent urination and increased thirst; Mood or concentration changes (including depression).

Hypoparathyroidism is when the parathyroid glands make too little PTH, leading to low blood calcium. Symptoms often include tingling or burning in the lips/fingers/toes, muscle cramps, and spasms, along with fatigue or weakness. Because low calcium can affect nerves and muscles, it's important to get evaluated rather than guessing.

Diagnosis typically starts with blood tests, including calcium and PTH (and often related labs like vitamin D and kidney function). If hyperparathyroidism is confirmed and surgery is being considered, imaging may be used to help locate overactive glands.

Treatment depends on the cause: Hyperparathyroidism may involve monitoring in select cases, medication in some situations, or parathyroid surgery when indicated. Hypoparathyroidism is commonly treated with oral calcium and prescription vitamin D (calcitriol) to maintain safe calcium levels. If you're looking for parathyroid disorder evaluation or treatment in Atlanta, North Georgia Endocrinology can review symptoms, labs, and options and guide next steps.