Quick version
- Overactive parathyroid glands (primary hyperparathyroidism) lead to too much parathyroid hormone (PTH) being produced, which causes the calcium level in the blood to increase.
- When this happens, the whole body is affected – including the bones, kidneys and mental health.
- Common symptoms are fatigue, depression, difficulty concentrating, osteoporosis, kidney stones, nausea and muscle pain.
- There is a documented connection between high levels of PTH, calcium and mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.
- Blood tests of PTH, calcium, phosphate and vitamin D are relevant for making a diagnosis.
- Ultrasound or scintigraphy are used to locate the overactive gland.
If you experience symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, high calcium, osteoporosis or depressive symptoms, a blood test may be necessary, which can give you important answers – It could be the parathyroid glands that are acting up.
What are the parathyroid glands?
The parathyroid glands, also called the parathyroid glands, are four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. By producing the hormone PTH, they regulate the calcium level in the blood, which is the main task of the parathyroid glands.
What happens when the parathyroid glands are overactive?
When the parathyroid glands are overactive, too much parathyroid hormone is produced, which leads to:
- Elevated calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia)
- Reduced calcium in the bones → increased risk of osteoporosis
- Excessive calcium excretion in the urine → risk of kidney stones
Symptoms of overactive parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism)
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition that often develops slowly and many people do not notice the symptoms right away. Here are some common signs of overactive parathyroid glands:
- Fatigue, low mood or depression
- Poor concentration and memory problems
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea and poor appetite
- Increased thirst and the need to urinate frequently
- Osteoporosis or bone fractures
- Kidney stones
Parathyroid glands and depression – is there a connection?
Yes, several studies have shown that elevated levels of PTH and calcium can affect brain function and contribute to several symptoms such as depression, irritability and anxiety. Many people with primary hyperparathyroidism experience an improvement in their mood once they have started treatment.
How do you know if you have the disease?
The diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism is made through blood tests:
- PTH – parathyroid hormone: Elevated with overactivity
- Calcium and Calcium ion: Elevated in the blood
- Phosphate: Often low
- Vitamin D: Check to exclude secondary causes, very high vitamin D levels affect the absorption of calcium
An ultrasound or scintigraphy can show where the overactive gland is located.
How do you know if you should get tested?
You may want to consider getting tested for overactive parathyroid glands if you:
- Have prolonged fatigue or depression for no apparent reason
- Have high calcium levels in your blood
- Suffer from osteoporosis or have had kidney stones
- Have symptoms of unexplained depression
By first measuring your levels of PTH, calcium and calcium ion in your blood, you can get important information about your calcium balance – and whether there may be a reason to proceed with a medical investigation together with a doctor.
