Hyperparathyroidism can be caused by enlargement of one or more of the parathyroid glands or in response to abnormally low calcium levels in the blood.

The parathyroid glands are located at the front and base of the neck around the thyroid gland and produce parathyroid hormone. Parathyroid hormone regulates calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium balance within the blood and bone by maintaining a balance between the mineral levels in the blood and the bone. Excessive levels of parathyroid hormone disturbs this balance and results in increasing the blood calcium level by reabsorbing it from the bone and increasing absorption from the kidneys and intestines.

The effects of abnormal calcium levels are seen in several body systems including the skeletal, gastrointestinal, renal, muscular, and central nervous system.

Related topics:

• Parathyroid related hypercalcemia
• Primary hyperparathyroidism
• Secondary hyperparathyroidism
• Tertiary hyperparathyroidism

• Fatigue
• Back pain
• Joint pain
• Fractures of long bones
• Decreased height
• Increased urine output
• Increased thirst
• Upper abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Muscular weakness
• Muscle pain
• Depression
• Personality changes
• Stupor and possibly coma
• Itching of the skin
• Blurred vision (because of cataracts)
• Bone pain or tenderness

• Serum calcium is increased.
• Serum phosphorus is decreased.
• Serum alkaline phosphatase may be increased.
• Intact parathyroid hormone (PTch) in the blood is increased.
• Bone X-ray shows bone reabsorption or fractures.
• Imaging of the kidneys or ureters shows calcification or obstruction.

Treatment depends upon the severity and cause of the condition. Mild hypercalcemia may be followed medically unless impaired renal function, bone demineralization, or high blood pressure is present.

See the specific type of hyperparathyroidism.

Varies depending on the specific type of hyperparathyroidism.

Complications that result from excess calcium deposits within the body:

• Skeletal damage
• Urinary tract infection due to kidney stones and obstruction
• Peptic ulcer disease and pancreatitis
• Pseudogout

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate that primary hyperparathyroidism may be present.

Call your health care provider if signs of complications develop.

Maintaining an adequate intake of calcium may reduce risk.