SFENTA’s board-certified ear, nose, and throat physicians are adept at diagnosing and treating benign and malignant parathyroid disease. Their high level of expertise and experience ensures that you receive quality care and successful treatment.

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Treatment Options for Abnormal Parathyroid Glands

Your treatment will depend on the type of parathyroid condition you’re diagnosed with. Your doctor will order hyperparathyroidism testing, blood tests, urine tests, and imaging tests, such as a CT and MRI scan, to obtain a definitive diagnosis. In many cases, medication can be administered to reduce parathyroid hormone and better control your blood calcium levels. However, if a tumor is present, the surgical removal of that particular gland (parathyroidectomy) will likely be recommended. This procedure can be performed with open surgery or a minimally invasive approach for a shorter hospital stay and an easier recovery.

What is Parathyroid Disease?

Parathyroid disease refers to a group of three different conditions that affect the parathyroid gland. They include:

Hyperparathyroidism

This condition develops when the parathyroid produces too much PTH — usually due to a benign tumor on the gland. Excessive PTH can cause too much calcium to accumulate in the blood, resulting in osteoporosis and kidney stones.

Parathyroid Cancer

Cancer arising from the parathyroid glands is extremely rare. When it does occur, it tends to develop during middle age, progress very slowly, and return after treatment.

Hypoparathyroidism

When the parathyroid gland does not produce enough PTH, the calcium levels in the blood may plummet. This condition is often caused by neck surgery or damage to the parathyroid glands.

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Symptoms of Abnormal Parathyroid Glands

The symptoms of abnormal parathyroid glands can vary based on the specific condition.

Hyperparathyroidism

  • Fatigue and low energy levels
  • Muscle weakness and bone pain
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Loss of appetite
  • Bone loss

Hypoparathyroidism

  • Tingling
  • Numbness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle spasms

Parathyroid Cancer

  • A lump in the neck
  • Speaking and swallowing challenges
  • An increase in blood calcium levels
  • Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
  • Fatigue and drowsiness
  • Frequent urination
  • Muscle weakness
  • Kidney stones
  • Bone pain

About SFENTA

The staff at SFENTA are passionate about helping patients find relief from the ENT conditions that are affecting their lives.

We strive to provide each patient with:

Patient-Centered Care

We offer care specific to your unique needs and customized to fit your lifestyle.

Continuity of Care

Our work doesn’t stop until we’ve helped you achieve relief.

A Highly Trained Network of Physicians

With over 50 ENT specialists within our network, you can ensure you are in good hands with SFENTA.

The Security of a Community Staple

SFENTA has over 30 locations across South Florida, making it easier than ever to access quality ENT care.

Abnormal Parathyroid Glands FAQs

Who does the condition affect?

The condition is most commonly found in those with:

  • Prolonged deficiencies of calcium or vitamin D 
  • Kidney failure
  • A growth on the parathyroid gland
  • Enlarged parathyroid glands

How are abnormal parathyroid glands diagnosed?

It can be challenging to diagnose the parathyroid disease accurately. As such, it’s essential to work with a physician with a high level of experience diagnosing and treating these conditions — such as SFENTA’s board-certified ear, nose, and throat experts.

How is the parathyroid tested?

If patients are exhibiting signs of an abnormal parathyroid gland, our staff will recommend parathyroid testing. This testing can be performed through blood tests, urine tests, or CT imaging.

Does SFENTA perform parathyroid surgery if needed?

Yes. Our staff are experts in parathyroid surgery. The parathyroid is small — roughly the size of a grain of rice — so it can be a challenging procedure to perform. Our staff includes highly-trained surgeons who are experienced in parathyroid surgery. 

Learn more

With 37 convenient locations across the South Florida area, we’re never far away.

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