What You Need to Know About Parathyroid Gland Problems
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When it comes to calcium regulation in the body, the parathyroid glands play a vital role. These small but powerful glands maintain calcium balance, support bone health, and ensure nerve and muscle function. However, when something goes wrong with the parathyroid, it can trigger serious health problems.
If you're seeking answers about parathyroid disorders or looking for the best ENT doctor in Dubai for treatment, this blog is your comprehensive guide. We’ll answer some of the most asked questions and help you understand when to seek help from Dubai’s leading ENT specialists at Tarabichi ENT, widely recognized as the best ENT institute in Dubai.
1. What is the Parathyroid Gland?
The parathyroid glands are four tiny, pea-sized glands typically located behind the thyroid gland in your neck. Despite their name, they have no related function with the thyroid. Their sole purpose is to regulate calcium levels in the body.
Interestingly, not everyone has exactly four parathyroid glands. Some individuals may have more or fewer, and in rare cases, the glands may be located in unusual places like the chest or esophagus.
2. What Does the Parathyroid Do?
The parathyroid glands function together to release a crucial hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH controls the levels of calcium in your blood, one of the most essential minerals in the body.
Here’s how parathyroid helps maintain your health:
Calcium Regulation
Only about 1% of your body’s calcium circulates in your bloodstream, yet this small amount plays a vital role. PTH ensures that blood calcium levels stay within a safe and narrow range, which is critical for:
- Bone strength and health
- Proper blood clotting
- Muscle contraction and movement
- Normal heart rhythm
- Nerve signal transmission
Vitamin D Activation
PTH also assists in activating vitamin D in the kidneys. Active vitamin D allows your intestines to absorb calcium from food, and it helps reduce calcium loss through urine. This synergy ensures your body retains enough calcium for crucial functions.
For individuals experiencing calcium imbalances, parathyroid treatment in Dubai at Tarabichi ENT offers state-of-the-art care, diagnosis, and therapy options tailored to your needs.
3. What are the Common Types of Parathyroid Disease?
Parathyroid disease typically involves either overproduction or underproduction of parathyroid hormone. Let’s explore the most common conditions affecting these glands.
A. Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism occurs when one or more parathyroid glands become overactive, producing excess parathyroid hormone and leading to high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia).
There are three types:
1. Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Caused by an enlargement or tumor in the parathyroid glands. It leads to uncontrolled PTH production and excessive calcium in the blood.
2. Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Triggered by another condition, such as kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency, which causes calcium levels to drop and stimulates excess PTH production in response.
3. Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism
This occurs when secondary hyperparathyroidism becomes chronic, and the glands continue overproducing PTH even after calcium levels normalize.
Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism may include:
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Memory issues or confusion
- Joint and bone pain (Know more)
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Depression or anxiety
- Fragile bones or fractures
- Kidney stones
- Constipation
In cases of tertiary hyperparathyroidism, patients may also experience:
- Itchy skin
- Kidney damage
- Calcium buildup in soft tissues
B. Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism is the opposite when your glands don’t make enough parathyroid hormone, leading to dangerously low calcium and high phosphate levels.
Causes of Hypoparathyroidism include:
- Neck or thyroid surgery
- Autoimmune diseases
- Radiation therapy
- Genetic mutations
- Low magnesium levels
Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism can include:
- Tingling in lips, fingers, or toes
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Seizures
- Low blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dry skin or brittle nails
- Depression or anxiety
- Painful menstrual cycles
- Long-term issues like cataracts or dental problems
At Tarabichi ENT, one of the best ENT clinics in Dubai, ENT specialists are trained to identify and treat both hyper- and hypoparathyroidism through advanced diagnostic tools and individualized care.
C. Parathyroid Cancer
Parathyroid cancer is extremely rare but serious. It causes the gland to become overactive, often resulting in dangerously high calcium levels. Common signs include:
- A noticeable lump in the neck
- Severe fatigue
- Bone pain
- Kidney problems
- High blood pressure
The team at Tarabichi ENT, known for their excellence in parathyroid treatment in Dubai, offers expert evaluation and treatment for all forms of parathyroid disease, including cancer.
4. What are the Treatment Options for Parathyroid Disease?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the parathyroid disorder. Tarabichi ENT’s team includes the best ENT specialists in Dubai, providing comprehensive and personalized care for every patient.
Hyperparathyroidism Treatment
Surgical Removal
The most effective treatment is parathyroidectomy removal of the overactive gland(s). If all four glands are affected, surgeons may remove three and a portion of the fourth.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For patients not eligible for surgery:
- Calcimimetics: Mimic calcium to reduce PTH production
- Bisphosphonates: Preserve bone density and reduce fracture risk
Hypoparathyroidism Treatment
Supplementation
Treatment focuses on normalizing calcium and phosphorus levels:
- Oral calcium supplements
- Active vitamin D (calcitriol)
- Magnesium levels are low
- In some cases, synthetic parathyroid hormone may be prescribed
Patients at Tarabichi ENT, which has the best ENT doctors in Dubai, providing patients with personalized treatment plans and expert care to manage calcium levels and improve quality of life.
Parathyroid Cancer Treatment
The standard treatment for parathyroid cancer is surgery to remove the affected gland and any surrounding tissues. Additional therapies may include:
- Medications to control calcium levels
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy (in rare, aggressive cases)
Early diagnosis and expert surgical care at the best ENT institute in Dubai are crucial for optimal outcomes.
Calcium balance is vital to nearly every system in your body. If you’re experiencing unexplained fatigue, bone pain, kidney stones, or mood changes, it may be time to see an expert. Disorders of parathyroid glands can often be managed or even cured with the right treatment.
Get the specialized help you need from Dubai’s leading ENT specialists at Tarabichi ENT, your trusted center for parathyroid treatment in Dubai. Whether you're seeking diagnosis, medical management, or expert surgical care, you'll be in the best hands with the best ENT doctor Dubai has to offer.
CONSULT THE BEST ENT DOCTOR IN DUBAI
If you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue, bone pain, frequent urination, or unexplained mood changes, it’s essential to consult the best ENT specialist in Dubai without delay. These signs could indicate a parathyroid disorder, and early diagnosis is key to preventing complications such as osteoporosis, kidney stones, or severe calcium imbalance. Trust Tarabichi ENT for expert evaluation and advanced parathyroid treatment in Dubai.
Our team of the Best ENT doctors in Dubai, at Tarabichi Healthcare is committed to delivering world-class care with precision and compassion.
Meet our dedicated specialists: Dr. Muaaz Tarabichi, Dr. Michael Timms, Dr. Mustafa Kapadia, Dr. Satish Jain, Dr. Nazik Elfadil and Dr. Jamal Kassouma.
We provide minimally invasive treatments tailored to your condition, with a strong focus on safety, accuracy, and long-term results.
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