According to the Mayo Clinic (2012a), there are numerous complications that can that can coexist with hypoparathyroidism. These complications are divided into two categories: reversible conditions and irreversible conditions.
Reversible complications generally develop as a result of low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) and can be corrected with medical treatment. The Mayo Clinic (2012a) lists six reversible complications:
Tetany – a manifestation of an abnormal calcium metabolism; it is characterized by cramps, convulsions, spasms and twitching of muscles throughout the face, arms, and possibly throat (Mosby’s Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing & Health Professions, 2009).
Paresthesias – a sensation described as numbness and tingling or a “pins and needles” feeling. It can occur within any part of the body, but it is most commonly felt within the extremities (Mosby’s Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing & Health Professions, 2009).
Loss of consciousness with convulsions – often noted as tonic-clonic or “grand mal” seizures; characterized by involuntary muscle contractions with simultaneous respiratory cessation (breathing normally resumes after the convulsions stop) (Mosby’s Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing & Health Professions, 2009).
Complications
According to the Mayo Clinic (2012a), there are numerous complications that can that can coexist with hypoparathyroidism. These complications are divided into two categories: reversible conditions and irreversible conditions.
Reversible complications generally develop as a result of low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) and can be corrected with medical treatment. The Mayo Clinic (2012a) lists six reversible complications:
Irreversible complications associated with hypoparathyroidism will not improve with the calcium and vitamin D treatment these patients receive:
By: Stephanie Nimmer