Parathyroid Disease
The parathyroid glands are located in the neck adjacent to the thyroid gland. The primary function of the parathyroid glands is to regulate calcium levels within the blood stream. This calcium regulation is done through the secretion of parathyroid hormone.
The most common disease of the parathyroid glands is over-secretion of parathyroid hormone, causing excess calcium levels within the blood stream. This disease is called PRIMARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, and even kidney stones. In most cases, primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by a benign growth of a single parathyroid gland, called a parathyroid adenoma.
Management of primary hyperparathyroidism necessitates surgical removal of the abnormal gland. Once the abnormal gland is removed, the body’s calcium levels can normalize and symptoms resolve.
The surgeons of Loveland Surgical Associates are able to remove an abnormal parathyroid gland through minimally invasive and traditional approaches. The operation typically involves a general anesthetic, and an overnight hospital stay.
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