Hyperparathyroidism refers to a condition in which there is overactivity of the parathyroid glands, four small glands located around the thyroid gland in the neck.
Hyperparathyroidism may lead to severe symptoms, mild symptoms, or may not cause symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they can include
- weakness,
- fatigue,
- depression, or
- body aches and pains.
Often, the symptoms are very nonspecific. Other associated symptoms and signs can include
- decreased appetite,
- nausea and vomiting,
- constipation,
- increased thirst,
- increased urination,
- confusion, and
- thinning of the bones (osteoporosis).
Cause of hyperparathyroidism
Primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by a disorder of the parathyroid glands themselves. The most common cause of primary hyperparathyroidism is a benign tumor (adenoma) on one of the glands that produces excess hormone. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is caused by a condition elsewhere in the body causes the glands to produce too much hormone.
Other hyperparathyroidism symptoms and signs
- Body Aches and Pains
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Decreased Appetite
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Increased Thirst
- Increased Urination
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Thinning of the Bones (Osteoporosis)
- Weakness
Main Article on Hyperparathyroidism Symptoms and Signs
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