From the Guidelines
Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and abnormal involuntary movements, which can be associated with hypocalcemia.
Common Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Abnormal involuntary movements
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiogram
- Paresthesias
- Muscle cramps
- Tremors
- Rigidity These symptoms can occur at any age and may be triggered or worsened by biological stress, such as surgery, fracture, injury, childbirth, or infection, as well as by certain substances like alcohol or soda drinks, especially colas 1.
Associated Conditions
Hypoparathyroidism is often associated with other conditions, including hypothyroidism and hypomagnesemia, which can contribute to the development of hypocalcemia 1.
Clinical Presentation
The clinical presentation of hypoparathyroidism can vary, and some individuals may be asymptomatic, while others may experience severe symptoms, including seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, and osteopenia/osteoporosis 1.
Diagnosis and Management
Regular investigations, including measurements of pH-corrected ionized calcium, magnesium, parathyroid hormone, and creatinine concentrations, are recommended for individuals with hypoparathyroidism 1. Daily calcium and vitamin D supplementation are also recommended, and treatment with hormonally active metabolites of vitamin D may be necessary for more severe cases 1.
From the Research
Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism
The symptoms of hypoparathyroidism are primarily caused by low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) and high phosphate levels (hyperphosphatemia) in the blood. Some common symptoms include:
- Tingling and numbness of limb extremities 2
- Paresthesia (abnormal sensations such as tingling, numbness, or prickling) 3
- Fatigue 3
- Carpopedal spasm (a condition characterized by spasms of the hands and feet) 3
- Seizures, which can be mistaken for epilepsy 2, 3
- Hypocalcemia, which can range from mild to severe and cause a variety of symptoms 4, 5, 6
Laboratory Findings
In addition to these symptoms, laboratory findings may include: