Hypoparathyroidism

Parathyroid hormones are necessary to regulate and maintain normal blood calcium levels. Lack of parathyroid hormones (hypoparathyroidism) leads to low blood calcium (hypocalcemia). Hypocalcemia can cause muscle irritability and spasms.

Parathyroid hormones are produced by parathyroid glands located adjacent to the thyroid gland. If the parathyroid glands are surgically removed during thyroid gland surgery, hypoparathyroidism and hypocalcemia can occur.

The treatment of hypoparathyroidism and hypocalcemia is with oral calcium supplements and oral vitamin D. Oral vitamin D increases the gut absorption of calcium in the diet. Along with calcium supplements, vitamin D helps to maintain normal blood calcium levels in patients with hypoparathyroidism.

Parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or all of the parathyroid glands.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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