Parathyroid disorders are often misunderstood or mistaken for other conditions, yet they can have a profound impact on overall health—especially in women. While these tiny glands behind the thyroid play a big role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels, when they malfunction, the symptoms can be wide-ranging and disruptive. Recognizing the early signs is crucial for seeking timely diagnosis and treatment. This article explores the most common parathyroid symptoms, with a focus on parathyroid disease symptoms in women, and highlights the 5 symptoms of parathyroid disorders not to be ignored.
Why the Parathyroid Glands Matter
The parathyroid glands, usually four in number, are located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. Their primary role is to control calcium levels in the blood and bones through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Calcium is essential not just for bone health but also for muscle contraction, nerve communication, and blood clotting.
When one or more of these glands becomes overactive—a condition known as hyperparathyroidism—it results in an excess of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). While it may sound minor, this imbalance can lead to a range of physical and cognitive symptoms. On the other hand, underactive parathyroid glands (hypoparathyroidism) cause calcium levels to fall too low, also leading to serious health consequences.
5 Symptoms of Parathyroid Disorders Not To Be Ignored
Parathyroid disorders can be subtle at first, often going unrecognized. However, there are some hallmark symptoms that should prompt a conversation with a healthcare provider:
Chronic Fatigue and Weakness: One of the earliest and most common symptoms, often mistaken for stress or poor sleep. When calcium levels are imbalanced, muscles and nerves don't function optimally, leaving individuals feeling drained.
Bone and Joint Pain: Since calcium is leached from the bones during hyperparathyroidism, patients may experience aching bones, increased fractures, or even early signs of osteoporosis.
Memory Loss and Confusion: High calcium levels affect brain function, leading to “brain fog,” memory lapses, and in severe cases, depression or anxiety. Many people attribute these changes to aging or hormonal shifts, particularly women going through menopause.
Kidney Stones: Elevated calcium in the bloodstream increases the likelihood of kidney stone formation. If you’ve had recurrent stones, your doctor might check parathyroid hormone levels.
Digestive Issues: Nausea, loss of appetite, or constipation can be linked to hyperparathyroidism. These symptoms are nonspecific but tend to persist in cases of glandular imbalance.
These symptoms may develop slowly, making them easy to dismiss. However, ignoring them can lead to long-term complications such as cardiovascular issues, reduced bone density, and impaired kidney function.
Parathyroid Disease Symptoms in Women
While both men and women can develop parathyroid disorders, parathyroid disease symptoms in women are often overlooked or misattributed to other hormonal changes such as perimenopause or thyroid dysfunction. Women over the age of 50 are particularly vulnerable, with many experiencing vague symptoms that go untreated for years.
Mood changes like irritability or depression, poor sleep, and general body aches are frequently dismissed as emotional or age-related. In reality, these symptoms may be directly related to calcium and PTH imbalances. For women experiencing persistent fatigue, concentration difficulties, and bone loss—even if mild—a full metabolic panel that includes calcium and parathyroid hormone levels can provide important insights.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options in the U.S.
In the U.S., diagnosing parathyroid disorders typically begins with blood tests to check calcium and PTH levels. If hyperparathyroidism is suspected, doctors may also order bone density scans or imaging of the parathyroid glands to identify any abnormal growths.
Treatment for hyperparathyroidism often involves surgical removal of the overactive gland(s). This procedure is highly effective and usually curative. For those with hypoparathyroidism, treatment may include calcium and vitamin D supplements, along with careful monitoring.
Because symptoms of parathyroid disease can mimic many other conditions, early detection is key. Seeking care from an endocrinologist—a specialist in hormone-related conditions—can lead to a faster and more accurate diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Parathyroid disorders may be small in scale, but their impact is far-reaching. From subtle symptoms like fatigue to serious complications such as osteoporosis or kidney stones, calcium imbalance should never be ignored. Recognizing parathyroid symptoms, especially parathyroid disease symptoms in women, can be the first step toward better health. By staying informed and proactive, individuals can ensure they receive the care needed to restore hormonal balance and long-term wellness.