Parathyroid Disorders (3/31)

What are the parathyroid glands responsible for secreting?

Parathyroid hormone (PTH)

Where are the parathyroid glands located?

On the posterior surface of the thyroid gland.

When is PTH released into the bloodstream?

When blood calcium levels are low.

high PTH =

=serum calcium (steals calcium from bones

What is the effect of PTH on bones?

Stimulates osteoclast activity to release calcium from bones into the bloodstream.

What is Hypoparathyroidism?

A rare condition caused by damage during surgery or genetic factors.

Hypoparathyroidism what level of calcium

low

What is the clinical presentation of hypoparathyroidism?

Hypocalcemia, Chvostek's sign, Trousseau's sign, muscle cramps, tetany, convulsions, mood changes.

What is the treatment for hypoparathyroidism?

Replacement of PTH to normalize calcium levels.

What causes hyperparathyroidism?

Parathyroid adenoma.

What are the signs of primary hyperparathyroidism?

Elevated PTH and calcium levels.

What defines secondary hyperparathyroidism?

Elevated PTH with low or normal calcium levels.

What are common symptoms of hyperparathyroidism?

Muscle weakness, kidney stones, osteoporosis, pathological fractures, poor concentration, neuropathy.

due to too much calcium

What is the treatment for hyperparathyroidism?

Surgery to reduce serum calcium levels.

What is the normal serum calcium range?

9.5 to 11 mg/dL.

What assessment should a nurse expect for a client with a sub-therapeutic dose of levothyroxine?

Lethargy, bradycardia, pallor.

Should a client stop taking levothyroxine when feeling nauseous?

No.

What is the purpose of the enlarged gland test?

To assess for dysphagia (swallowing difficulties).

What is the effect of hyperparathyroidism on blood calcium levels?

Increases blood calcium levels.

What mental health condition is prioritized in hypothyroidism?

Depression.

What foods should people taking methimazole avoid?

Shrimp and lobster.

What role does osteoclast activity play in calcium regulation?

It releases calcium from bones into the bloodstream.

What is Trousseau's sign?

A sign indicating hypocalcemia; muscle spasm when the blood pressure cuff is inflated.

What is Chvostek's sign?

A sign of hypocalcemia; twitching of the facial muscles when the facial nerve is tapped.

What complications can arise from untreated hypoparathyroidism?

Severe hypocalcemia leading to convulsions and muscle spasms.

How does hyperparathyroidism affect the kidneys?

It can lead to kidney stones due to increased calcium levels.

What medication might be prescribed for hypoparathyroidism?

Synthetic parathyroid hormone or calcium supplements.

What is the effect of calcium supplements in hypoparathyroidism?

They help normalize calcium levels in the blood.

What is the connection between hyperparathyroidism and osteoporosis?

Increased PTH leads to bone resorption, contributing to osteoporosis.

What are some psychological effects of hypothyroidism?

Fatigue, depression, and mood changes.

What are the risks associated with hyperparathyroidism?

Increased risk of fractures and kidney damage.

What might indicate a need for surgical intervention in hyperparathyroidism?

Severe symptoms and high serum calcium levels.

What can happen if hypoparathyroidism is not treated?

Increased risks of severe complications like tetany and convulsions.

How often should serum calcium levels be monitored in someone with hypoparathyroidism?

Regular monitoring is necessary to avoid complications.

What is the primary hormone responsible for bone calcium mobilization?

Parathyroid hormone (PTH).

What is the role of dietary calcium in managing parathyroid disorders?

Adequate calcium intake is essential for maintaining stable serum calcium levels.