10 Unexpected Signs of a Vitamin D Deficiency
Chronic fatigue, hair loss, or frequent illnesses might be signs of more than aging. Discover the surprising signs of a vitamin D deficiency and how to address it for better health.
The Many Signs of Parathyroid Disease
Parathyroid disease, also known as hyperparathyroidism, occurs when your parathyroid glands become overactive and begin pumping out high quantities of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Because PTH regulates the amount of calcium in your blood, an increase in the hormone equals an increase in calcium, a condition called hypercalcemia.
Our experienced team of specialists at The Endocrine Center in Houston, Texas, diagnoses and treats hyperparathyroidism and can help you resolve your symptoms, usually through nutrition and medication.
Unfortunately, many people suffer from parathyroid disease and don’t even know it. That’s why we’ve listed several possible symptoms below to help you spot the signs so you can come see us right away for an accurate diagnosis and prompt, quality care.
Consequences of too much PTH
When your parathyroid kicks into overdrive and produces too much PTH, it triggers your body to make and retain more calcium.
Your body complies by robbing calcium from your bones and releasing it into your bloodstream (weakening your bones), causing your digestive tract to absorb more calcium (causing acid reflux), and signaling your kidneys to hang onto calcium rather than flushing it out (which may lead to kidney stones).
Signs of hyperparathyroidism
Some people have no symptoms — or don’t realize they have symptoms — of parathyroid disease, many have four or five classic symptoms, and others have multiple symptoms associated with an overactive parathyroid.
It’s important to note that symptoms aren’t dependent on the amount of calcium in your blood, but rather the length of time your blood calcium levels stay above the normal range of 8.6-10.2 milligrams per deciliter. Even if your total blood calcium is only mildly elevated, you may suffer the effects, including any of the following:
- Fatigue
- General malaise
- Depression
- Trouble sleeping
- Acid reflux
- Lack of concentration
- Irritability
- Intense need to nap
- Achy joints
- Memory loss
- Kidney stones
- Hair loss
- Headaches
- Low libido
- High blood pressure
- Loss of appetite
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Bone pain
Some of these symptoms only appear if you’ve been living with hyperparathyroidism for years, and some show up sooner. Because these symptoms can also indicate a number of other conditions, it’s important to have our team run appropriate tests on your blood, bone density, and neck to rule out other diseases and arrive at an accurate diagnosis.
Complications of parathyroid disease
Left untreated, hyperparathyroidism can lead to come severe conditions, including:
- Decreased kidney function
- Kidney stones
- Osteoporosis
- Hypertension
- Heart disease
Fortunately, there are effective treatments to get your parathyroid back in control. For many people, the condition improves with simple changes in diet, including nutritional supplements. Medications may also restore proper blood calcium levels.
In severe cases, it may be best to remove your parathyroid to resolve the problem. When this becomes necessary, our team skillfully performs a minimally invasive procedure that is quick and painless.
If you’ve been feeling generally unwell and have some of the symptoms we’ve listed, we encourage you to come in for some tests to find out if your parathyroid may be the culprit. Schedule an appointment online or call us at any of our three Houston locations today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
4 Changes During Menopause Connected to Hormones
You may expect hot flashes and night sweats during menopause, but the effects don’t stop there. Hormonal fluctuations can affect your whole body, so we’re offering our expert insights and proven treatments for a smoother transition.
Am I Too Young to Have Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis only affects the elderly, right? Wrong. Developing weak and brittle bones due to decreased bone density and mass can hit sooner than you might think. Learn how age impacts bone health and what you can do to prevent it at any stage.
Abnormal Thyroid Hormone Levels During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of big changes—mood swings, cravings, and, yes, even your thyroid! This tiny gland in your neck plays a big role in keeping both you and your baby healthy.
Can I Still Get Pregnant With a Thyroid Disorder?
Learning that you have a thyroid disorder is concerning, but if it affects your ability to have kids, it can be downright devastating. Here’s what you need to know about how your thyroid affects fertility and pregnancy.
5 Tips to Prevent Gestational Diabetes
You can’t choose your baby’s eye color, gender, or personality, but you can choose to give them — and yourself — the best shot at a healthy pregnancy and delivery by following these strategies for sidestepping gestational diabetes.