What is hyperparathyroidism?
It is a disease in which one or more parathyroid glands become overactive and consequently secrete too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). This leads to an increase in blood calcium levels, resulting in a condition known as hypercalcemia. Approximately 100,000 new cases develop annually in the United States, primarily affecting postmenopausal women.
Symptoms may include:
- Joint pain
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Concentration problems
- Loss of appetite
If you experience these symptoms and believe you may have hyperparathyroidism, consult your doctor.
How does it affect the development of kidney stones?
24% of people with hyperparathyroidism will develop kidney stones, especially those under 40 years of age.
Since the main function of the kidneys is to filter and clean the blood, they are continuously exposed to high calcium levels in patients suffering from this disease.
Constantly filtering large amounts of blood with calcium increases calcium adherence in the renal tubules, leading to the formation of kidney stones. In extreme cases, the kidney could even calcify. These episodes of kidney stones are very painful, and in severe cases, can lead to kidney failure.
Due to the composition of their urine, these patients are particularly susceptible to calcification of temporary or permanent urinary catheters.
To help prevent the crystallization of these kidney stones, you can use food supplements containing phytate, magnesium, and polyphenols, drink plenty of water, stay active, or undergo surgery to remove the parathyroid gland in more acute cases.
References:
* The Cleveland Clinic, Center for Consumer Health Information.
* Norman Parathyroid Center: https://www.parathyroid.com/paratiroide/sintomas.html
