There is separate information about hypoparathyroidism, which is where there is not enough calcium in the body.
Many people with hyperparathyroidism have no, or very mild, symptoms. You may only find out you have it after having tests for something else.
When symptoms do happen, they include:
- tiredness
- aches and pains, particularly in your joints, hands, arms, feet and legs
- muscle weakness
- feeling and being sick
- loss of appetite
- constipation
- tummy pain
- feeling thirsty all the time
- peeing more than usual
- low mood and depression
See a GP if:
- you think you might have hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism is caused by your body producing too much calcium. Calcium helps with things like keeping your bones and teeth healthy.
The amount of calcium in the body is controlled by tiny glands in your neck called the parathyroid glands.
Hyperparathyroidism can happen for 2 main reasons:
- your parathyroid glands become swollen due to a non-cancerous growth – this is called primary hyperparathyroidism
- your parathyroid glands cause too much calcium to be produced because another condition you have (such as chronic kidney disease) has lowered your calcium level – this is called secondary hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism can be diagnosed by testing samples of your blood and pee.
Many people are first diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism when they are having blood or pee tests for something else.
If you have hyperparathyroidism, further tests and scans may then be recommended to check your general health and help plan treatment.
These can include:
If you’re diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism, you’ll be referred to a specialist for treatment.
The treatment recommended for you will depend on your calcium levels, your symptoms and if you have any other health conditions.
You may not need treatment if your calcium levels are not too high and are not causing you any problems.
If you do need treatment, you may be offered surgery to remove part or all of the parathyroid glands in your neck.
If you’re unable to have surgery or do not want it, you may need medicines to help lower your calcium levels.
You may also be given medicines after surgery if testing shows your calcium levels are still high.
Important
Do not make any changes to your diet to try to lower your calcium levels, unless you have been told to by your specialist.
A change in your usual diet could make your symptoms worse or cause more serious problems.
If hyperparathyroidism is not treated, it can lead to complications:
These include:
- osteoporosis – where your bones become weaker and more likely to break
- kidney stones
- high blood pressure, which can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke
Find out more
Parathyroid UK is a charity that provides support and information for people living with parathyroid gland conditions.
