Parathyroid glands are located in the neck just behind the thyroid gland, hence the name parathyroid glands. In most people, there are a total of four parathyroid glands, but some may have three while others may have five.

The function of the parathyroid glands is to regulate calcium and phosphorus metabolism in the body.

Causes of Hypoparathyroidism

The most common cause for is surgical removal of the parathyroid glands at the time of thyroid surgery.

Rarely, it can be congenital or acquired as an autoimmune disorder.

Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism results in a low level of blood calcium and a high level of blood phosphorus.

Symptoms are due to the low calcium level and include muscle spasms and twitching.

A severely low calcium level can cause cardiac arrest.

Treatment of Hypoparathyroidism

Treatment of a patient with hypoparathyroidism is with calcium and vitamin D supplementation in high doses.

Close monitoring of calcium and phosphorus is important. You should be under the care of an experienced endocrinologist in this regard.