The parathyroid glands are tiny glands situated in the neck and play a significant role in controlling the amount of calcium in the body. These four pea-sized glands are located behind the thyroid gland.

Parathyroid hormone, which the glands produce, helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream. Understanding your parathyroid glands is important, as any malfunction can result in health complications.

What are the Parathyroid Glands?

The parathyroid glands are four small, bean-shaped glands that are found in the neck on the thyroid gland. They are known for producing parathyroid hormone, which is responsible for regulating the amount of calcium in the blood.

The hormone also helps keep bones healthy and strong by balancing the amount of calcium they absorb and use. The four glands are usually arranged as two pairs, with the upper and lower glands on each side of the thyroid, though in some rare cases, people may have six or even eight glands.

Why is Calcium So Important?

Calcium is one of those essential minerals that the body needs to function correctly.

It can only be absorbed into the bloodstream from food, and if there is too little of it available, the body will take it from the bones, eventually resulting in weakened bones. Not only does calcium enable the blood to clot, but it also helps muscles contract. Calcium also plays a critical role in ensuring that the heart muscles can beat correctly and keep blood pressure in check.

What is Parathyroid Hormone, and Why is it Important?

As mentioned, the parathyroid glands produce the hormone parathyroid hormone. This hormone controls the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood.

When levels of calcium begin to drop, the parathyroid glands secrete more of the hormone into the bloodstream. The hormone then activates bone cells to release calcium stores into the blood. Parathyroid hormone also helps the intestines absorb more calcium from food, which ensures that the body has enough available at all times.

The Causes of Parathyroid Problems

There are several causes of parathyroid problems, and they can manifest in many ways.

The most common problem is when one or more glands become overactive and produce too much parathyroid hormone, leading to a condition called primary hyperparathyroidism. This condition can result in high calcium levels in the blood and eventually lead to damage to the bones, kidneys, and other organs. Another condition, known as secondary hyperparathyroidism, can occur if calcium levels in the blood are too low.

This condition is more often the result of kidney disease, where the kidney is unable to convert vitamin D into its active form, which helps regulate calcium absorption.

Diagnosing Parathyroid Problems

If a patient presents symptoms of hyperparathyroidism, it is essential to seek medical help and diagnosis. Some common symptoms include fatigue, weakened bones, kidney stones, abdominal discomfort, and muscle weakness.

Diagnosis typically involves tests such as a blood test to check calcium levels, such as checking for elevated levels of parathyroid hormone. Scans like ultrasound, octreotide, or sestamibi may be required to locate any issues with the glands. Biopsy may also be necessary if doctors suspect a cancerous reaction.

Treatment for Parathyroid Problems

Parathyroid gland issues are often treated with surgery. If a patient is diagnosed with a benign or malignant tumor, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected glands.

If a patient has suffered significant bone loss, medication may be prescribed to stimulate bone growth. Patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism may require treatment for underlying kidney disease to prevent further damage.

Conclusion

The parathyroid glands are essential to the body’s correct functioning and play an important role in regulating calcium levels.

Parathyroid hormone, which they produce, helps to keep bones healthy, and ensures that the heart muscles can function correctly. Understanding the parathyroid glands and their proper functioning can help individuals identify any potential health complications and seek medical help if necessary.