# Hyperparathyroidism --- **Hyperparathyroidism** is a condition where there is an overproduction of [[parathyroid hormone]]. Since PTH increases serum calcium and removes calcium stored in the bones, this can lead to bone decalcification and [[hypercalcemia]] and the development of [[renal calculi]] and an increased risk for [[peptic ulcer disease|PUD]] and [[pancreatitis]]. Secondary hyperparathyroidism can occur for patients with [[chronic kidney disease]]. ## Risk Factors Hyperparathyroidism is most common in AFAB people 60-70 years old. ## Signs & Symptoms The signs and symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism tend to relate to elevated levels of serum calcium or a decreased level of calcium in the bones: - Apathy, fatigue, weakness - N/ V - constipation - increased BP - [[renal calculi]] - because of the increased urinary excretion of calcium - bone and joint pain - [[bone fracture|fractures]] ## Diagnostic Tests - blood tests - elevated serum calcium - concentrated PTH levels - radioimmunoassay for parathyroid hormone - bone scans or renal tests for calculi - low calcium and high phosphate levels indicates *secondary hyperparathyroidism* ## Treatment - restrict dietary calcium - ambulation - reduce the risk of renal calculi, drink 2L water per day **Medicine** - [[thyroid|calcitonin]] - lowers serum calcium and stores it in bones - also used for Paget's disease and postmenopausal osteoporosis - common S/E - local discomfort - N/V **Surgical** - parathyroidectomy - minimally invasive, usually outpatient - post-op care like that of a [[thyroid cancer#Treatment|thyroidectomy]], monitor for tetany ___