Hypoparathyroidism

Overview

Hypoparathyroidism is a rare endocrine disorder caused by insufficient parathyroid hormone secretion, leading to low blood calcium. Related symptoms include paresthesia, muscle spasms, and a prolonged QT interval, and in severe cases arrhythmia, laryngospasm, and seizures.

Symptoms

• Tetany of the hands and feet
• Numbness
• Muscle spasms
• Fatigue
• Emotional instability

Treatment

Long-term supplementation of calcium and active vitamin D to maintain normal blood calcium, intravenous calcium for acute hypocalcemic tetany, and regular monitoring of blood and urine calcium.

Dietary advice

Plenty of calcium-rich foods with vitamin D to aid absorption, and restriction of high-phosphorus foods.