Thyroids/Parathyroids

Are thyroid and parathyroid disorders the same?

Thyroid and parathyroid diseases have many similarities. However, they aren’t the same.

Thyroid disorders

These disorders affect the thyroid — a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck that produces essential hormones. 

Most thyroid disorders cause the thyroid to overproduce or underproduce hormones. Too much or too little hormone production increases the risk of various medical issues.

Parathyroid disorders

Parathyroid disorders affect the parathyroid glands –– four glands attached to the back of the thyroid. They release a hormone called PTH, which controls calcium levels in the body. 

Similar to thyroid disorders, parathyroid disorders cause the parathyroid to produce too much or too little PTH, increasing the risk of other medical issues.

What are some common thyroid/parathyroid disorders?

Dr. Madni diagnoses and treats various thyroid and parathyroid disorders, including:

• Thyroid nodules
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid)
• Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid)
• Primary hyperparathyroidism (increase in calcium levels caused by a benign tumor)
• Secondary hyperparathyroidism (change in parathyroid function due to vitamin D deficiency)

She also treats tertiary hyperparathyroidism, a parathyroid disorder common in people who have undergone kidney transplants.

What are the symptoms of thyroid/parathyroid disorders?

Thyroid/parathyroid disorders present various symptoms, including:

• Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Heat intolerance
• Kidney stones

Because many conditions present similar symptoms, seek medical treatment if you experience any of these issues. 

How are thyroid/parathyroid disorders diagnosed?

Dr. Madni reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. She also orders several blood tests to assess your hormone and calcium levels. 

Dr. Madni might also complete a neck ultrasound to check for thyroid enlargement or abnormal growths. 

How are thyroid/parathyroid disorders treated?

Dr. Madni treats thyroid and parathyroid disorders using a conservative and patient-centered approach. She could suggest:

• Anti-thyroid medication to slow hormone production
• Levothyroxine to restore your thyroid hormone levels to balance
• Vitamin D and calcium supplementation
• Prescription medication to improve thyroid or parathyroid function

Dr. Madni recommends surgery if you have severe symptoms that don’t improve with conservative treatments. For example, if you have a thyroid nodule that affects your ability to breathe or swallow, Dr. Madni can remove it to prevent complications.

Call the office of Dina Madni, MD, to schedule thyroid/parathyroid treatment, or book your appointment online today.