Hypoparathyroidism – What It Is and How to Manage It
Ever heard of hypoparathyroidism? It’s a rare hormone disorder that leaves your body low on calcium because the parathyroid glands don’t make enough parathyroid hormone (PTH). Without enough PTH, calcium can’t move out of bones and into blood, so you might feel shaky, tingly, or even get muscle cramps.
The condition can show up after neck surgery, from an autoimmune attack, or sometimes it’s there from birth. Regardless of why it starts, the low‑calcium problem is the same, and that’s what drives the symptoms.
Typical Symptoms You Might Notice
Most people first notice a tingling feeling around the lips, tongue, or fingers. That’s called paresthesia, and it’s a classic sign of low calcium. Muscle cramps, especially in the back or legs, are also common. Some folks get a strong urge to jump up and stretch because their muscles feel tight.
Other red flags include dry skin, brittle nails, and an increased risk of dental issues. In severe cases, low calcium can cause seizures or heart rhythm problems, which need emergency care. If you have any of these signs after thyroid or parathyroid surgery, it’s worth checking your calcium levels.
Treatment and Everyday Strategies
The main goal of treatment is to keep blood calcium in a safe range. Doctors usually prescribe calcium supplements and active vitamin D (calcitriol) to help your gut absorb more calcium. Some patients also get synthetic PTH injections, which act like the hormone their glands aren’t making.
Regular blood tests are a must. You’ll likely check calcium, phosphorus, and sometimes magnesium every few months. Keeping these numbers steady helps avoid both low‑calcium symptoms and the opposite problem—too much calcium, which can cause kidney stones.
Food can help, too. Dairy products, fortified plant milks, leafy greens, and canned fish with bones are calcium‑rich choices. Pair them with vitamin D‑rich foods like fatty fish, eggs, or mushrooms to boost absorption.
Stay hydrated and watch your caffeine and soda intake—these can increase calcium loss in urine. If you’re prone to kidney stones, your doctor might suggest a low‑salt diet and moderate protein.
Finally, talk to a pharmacist or your doctor before adding any new meds or supplements. Some drugs, like certain diuretics or anti‑seizure meds, can mess with calcium levels.
Living with hypoparathyroidism means a bit of extra monitoring, but with the right supplements, diet, and regular check‑ups, most people feel normal and stay active. If you suspect low calcium or have been diagnosed, work closely with your healthcare team to keep everything balanced.
