Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by insufficient PTH production, leading to hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. The most common cause is inadvertent removal or damage to the parathyroid glands during thyroid or neck surgery. Chronic hypocalcemia causes neuromuscular irritability, cognitive effects, and long-term complications including cataracts and basal ganglia calcification.
When to Book
Book a visit if symptoms are new, persistent, getting worse, or affecting daily life. Early evaluation often prevents complications.
Symptoms
Perioral numbness and tingling, hand and foot cramps, muscle spasms, carpopedal spasm, Chvostek's sign (facial muscle twitch with cheek tap), Trousseau's sign (carpal spasm with blood pressure cuff), and — in severe hypocalcemia — seizures, laryngospasm, or cardiac arrhythmia.
Causes & Risk Factors
Surgical hypoparathyroidism after thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy is the most common cause. Autoimmune destruction (isolated or part of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome), hypomagnesemia, infiltrative diseases (hemochromatosis, Wilson's), and genetic causes (DiGeorge syndrome) are less common.
How We Evaluate
Low serum calcium with low or inappropriately normal PTH confirms the diagnosis. Phosphorus is elevated. We check 25-OH-D, magnesium, creatinine, and 24-hour urine calcium. ECG (QTc prolongation). Regular surveillance includes kidney ultrasound to monitor for nephrocalcinosis from treatment.
Treatment Options
Active vitamin D (calcitriol) and calcium supplements are the mainstay. Magnesium repletion is essential when deficiency contributes. Thiazide diuretics reduce urine calcium excretion. PTH replacement (recombinant PTH 1–84, Natpara) is approved for patients not controlled on conventional therapy. The goal is to maintain calcium in the low-normal range to prevent both symptoms and hypercalciuria.
When It Is Urgent
Severe acute hypocalcemia with seizures, laryngospasm, or cardiac arrhythmia is a medical emergency requiring IV calcium gluconate infusion in an emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see an endocrinology provider?
No referral is needed at Nomi Beach Health. You can book directly with our team for hormone, thyroid, metabolic, or weight-management concerns.
How long does it take to see results from treatment?
Timeline depends on the condition. Thyroid medication often improves symptoms within four to eight weeks. Weight-loss interventions show measurable changes in four to twelve weeks. Hormone therapy timelines vary by the specific condition and individual response.
Will I need labs before my first visit?
You can come in without prior labs — we order whatever is appropriate during or after your visit. If you have recent results, bring them so we can start the conversation right away.
Are these conditions managed long-term or treated once?
Most endocrine and metabolic conditions require ongoing management rather than a single treatment. We build a follow-up schedule around your specific diagnosis and goals.
Can I be seen for weight loss even if I do not have a hormone diagnosis?
Yes. We evaluate weight holistically — including metabolic markers, lifestyle factors, and, when appropriate, medication options such as GLP-1 agonists.
Get a Clear Plan for Hypoparathyroidism
Our endocrinology team evaluates you as an individual and builds a treatment plan that fits your life — not a template.