Parathyroid Glands in Grand Rapids, MI

The parathyroid glands are four tiny glands located behind or near the thyroid gland in the neck. “Para” means “near,” which explains their name. These small glands are part of your endocrine system, which includes glands that release hormones into your bloodstream to regulate many body functions.

In Grand Rapids, parathyroid disorders are diagnosed and treated by endocrinologists and surgeons at major health systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health.

What Do the Parathyroid Glands Do?

The main job of the parathyroid glands is to make parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH helps regulate the levels of:

  • Calcium
  • Phosphorus
  • Magnesium

in your blood and bones.

Why Calcium and Phosphorus Matter

Calcium and phosphorus are essential for:

  • Strong, healthy bones and teeth
  • Normal muscle function
  • Proper nerve function
  • Heart rhythm and blood clotting

When blood calcium levels drop too low, the parathyroid glands release more PTH, which:

  • Signals bones to release calcium into the bloodstream
  • Increases calcium reabsorption in the kidneys
  • Helps activate vitamin D, which improves calcium absorption from food

When blood calcium levels are too high, the glands reduce PTH production.

Parathyroid Problems: Hyperparathyroidism and Hypoparathyroidism

Problems occur when the parathyroid glands are overactive (hyperparathyroidism) or underactive (hypoparathyroidism).

In the Grand Rapids and West Michigan region, these conditions are often managed by endocrinologists and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons at local hospitals, with support from the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health for broader community education and screening programs.

Hyperparathyroidism (Overactive Parathyroid Glands)

Hyperparathyroidism happens when one or more parathyroid glands make too much PTH, causing high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia).

  • It affects roughly 1 in 2,000 people
  • It is more common in women over age 50, a significant demographic in the Grand Rapids area

Causes of Hyperparathyroidism

Common causes include:

  • Parathyroid adenoma – a small, usually benign (non-cancerous) tumor on one gland (most common cause)
  • Chronic kidney (renal) disease – more common in patients with long-standing kidney problems, including some seen in Michigan’s aging population
  • Certain medications, such as some anticonvulsant drugs
  • Rarely, part of a genetic condition such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)

How Hyperparathyroidism Affects the Body

Too much PTH:

  • Raises blood calcium levels
  • Pulls calcium out of the bones, making them weaker
  • Puts extra strain on the kidneys

Up to 50% of people with hyperparathyroidism develop kidney stones, which can be especially concerning for residents who may already be prone to dehydration in hot, humid Michigan summers or who have limited fluid intake.

Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism

Symptoms can be mild at first and may be missed. Over time, they can include:

  • Bone and joint pain
  • Back pain
  • Increased risk of fractures
  • Loss of height (from weakened, compressed bones)
  • Muscle aches and weakness
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Depression and other personality or mood changes
  • Nausea and loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain
  • Thirst and frequent urination
  • Kidney stones and recurrent urinary tract infections

If you live in Grand Rapids and notice a combination of these symptoms—especially kidney stones plus bone pain or fatigue—talk with your primary care provider or an endocrinologist at a local health system.

Hypoparathyroidism (Underactive Parathyroid Glands)

Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands make too little PTH, causing low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia). When calcium is too low, nerves and muscles cannot function properly.

Causes of Hypoparathyroidism

Possible causes include:

  • Injury to the parathyroid glands, often during thyroid or neck surgery
  • Surgery on or near the thyroid gland
  • Magnesium deficiency
  • Genetic disorders
  • Being born without parathyroid glands (congenital absence)

Hypoparathyroidism can sometimes be seen after thyroid surgery performed at Grand Rapids hospitals; this is why surgeons closely monitor calcium levels after these procedures.

Symptoms of Hypoparathyroidism

Symptoms of low calcium can be serious and may include:

  • Muscle cramps and spasms
  • Tingling or “pins and needles” in the fingers, toes, and around the mouth
  • Convulsions (seizures) in severe cases
  • Dry, rough skin
  • Brittle hair and nails
  • Dental problems – teeth may form poorly or erupt late in children
  • Impaired mental development in children if untreated
  • In some cases, associated conditions such as Addison’s disease or painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea)

An acute attack of hypoparathyroidism is a medical emergency and is treated in the hospital—at facilities like Corewell Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids—with intravenous (IV) calcium.

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN1)

The parathyroid glands are part of the endocrine system, which also includes the pituitary, pancreas, adrenals, and thyroid.

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is a rare, inherited condition in which tumors develop in at least two endocrine glands, often including the parathyroids.

Possible Symptoms of MEN1

Symptoms vary depending on which glands are affected and may include:

  • Gastrointestinal problems:
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Black or tarry stools
    • Persistent indigestion or heartburn
    • Abdominal pain and bloating
  • Vision problems
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Reduced sex drive

MEN1 is usually managed by a specialized endocrine team, often found at larger centers like Corewell Health in Grand Rapids, with access to advanced imaging (MRI, CT) and genetic counseling.

Complications of Untreated Parathyroid Disorders

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, parathyroid disorders can cause serious, long-term complications.

Hyperparathyroidism Complications

  • Kidney stones
  • Frequent urinary tract infections
  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Significant bone loss and osteoporosis
  • Increased risk of bone fractures

Hypoparathyroidism Complications

  • Poor tooth development or delayed tooth eruption in children
  • Learning and developmental problems in children if untreated
  • Chronic muscle cramps and spasms
  • Associated endocrine problems such as Addison’s disease
  • Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea)

MEN1 Complications

  • Multiple tumors in endocrine glands
  • Hormone imbalances affecting digestion, blood sugar, blood pressure, and more
  • Need for repeated surgeries or long-term treatment

Diagnosing Parathyroid Disorders in Grand Rapids

If your doctor suspects a parathyroid problem, they may refer you to an endocrinologist or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist at a Grand Rapids health system for further evaluation.

Tests for Hyperparathyroidism

  • Blood tests to measure:
    • Calcium
    • Phosphorus
    • Magnesium
    • Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
  • Bone X‑rays or bone density scans (DEXA) to check bone strength
  • Kidney imaging (ultrasound, CT scan) to look for stones or damage
  • Occasionally, a biopsy (small tissue sample) if a tumor is suspected

Tests for Hypoparathyroidism

  • Blood tests for:
    • Calcium
    • Phosphorus
    • Magnesium
    • PTH levels
  • Heart tests, such as ECG, to look for abnormal heart rhythms related to low calcium

Tests for MEN1

  • Blood tests to measure various hormone levels
  • Imaging tests, including MRI and CT scans, to look for tumors in the pituitary, pancreas, parathyroids, and other glands
  • Genetic testing and counseling, often coordinated through major centers like Corewell Health or university-affiliated programs

Treatment Options for Parathyroid Disorders

Treatment in Grand Rapids will depend on the type and severity of the parathyroid disorder and is typically managed by a team that may include:

  • Primary care physicians
  • Endocrinologists
  • ENT or head and neck surgeons
  • Nephrologists (kidney specialists) when needed

Treating Hyperparathyroidism

Options may include:

  • Monitoring (watchful waiting) for mild cases
  • Surgery (parathyroidectomy) to remove the overactive parathyroid gland(s) and any associated tumors – commonly performed at Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health
  • Dietary changes to manage calcium and phosphorus intake
  • Hydration – especially important in Michigan’s warmer months to help prevent kidney stones

Treating Hypoparathyroidism

Most people with chronic hypoparathyroidism need:

  • Lifelong vitamin D supplements
  • Calcium carbonate supplements
  • A high-calcium, low-phosphorus diet, guided by a dietitian if needed

An acute episode of severe hypocalcemia is treated in the hospital with IV calcium.

Treating MEN1

Treatment for MEN1 often involves:

  • Surgery to remove tumors and sometimes affected glands
  • Radiation therapy in some cases
  • Hormone replacement therapy after surgery to maintain normal hormone levels

Parathyroid Surgery (Parathyroidectomy) in Grand Rapids

Parathyroidectomy is surgery to remove one or more parathyroid glands.

  • Partial parathyroidectomy: At least one gland is left in place to help regulate calcium levels.
  • Total parathyroidectomy: All parathyroid glands are removed (sometimes with autotransplantation of parathyroid tissue elsewhere in the body).

Possible Surgical Risks

As with any neck surgery, potential complications include:

  • Injury to the nearby thyroid gland
  • Temporary or permanent changes in voice (due to nerve injury)
  • Low calcium levels after surgery, which may require supplements

In Grand Rapids, these procedures are typically done by experienced ENT or head and neck surgeons at major hospital systems, with careful monitoring before and after surgery.

Living with a Parathyroid Disorder in West Michigan

Because West Michigan experiences cold, dark winters, local residents may also be at higher risk of low vitamin D levels, which can affect calcium balance and bone health. Working with your healthcare provider to monitor vitamin D, calcium, and bone density is especially important if you have or are at risk for a parathyroid disorder.

Healthy habits that support bone and parathyroid health include:

  • Getting appropriate vitamin D (through safe sun exposure, diet, or supplements as advised)
  • Eating a balanced diet with adequate calcium
  • Staying physically active, including weight-bearing exercises
  • Avoiding smoking and limiting excessive alcohol intake
  • Staying well-hydrated, especially in summer and when prone to kidney stones

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you are concerned about symptoms of a parathyroid disorder, contact:

  • Your primary care doctor or family physician
  • An endocrinologist at:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health
  • An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or head and neck surgeon for surgical evaluation
  • Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for information on local resources, community screenings, and referrals

Key Points About Parathyroid Glands

  • The main function of the parathyroid glands is to produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in the blood and bones.
  • Hyperparathyroidism (overactive glands) often results from a small tumor (adenoma) and can lead to high blood calcium, bone loss, and kidney stones—up to 50% of patients present with kidney stone symptoms.
  • Other causes of hyperparathyroidism include chronic kidney disease and certain medications, such as anticonvulsant drugs.
  • Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism can include bone and joint pain, fatigue, depression, mood changes, nausea, abdominal pain, thirst, frequent urination, and kidney stones.
  • Hypoparathyroidism (underactive glands) leads to low blood calcium, causing muscle cramps, tingling, seizures, brittle hair and nails, and dry skin, and often requires lifelong calcium and vitamin D treatment.

Early diagnosis and treatment at Grand Rapids healthcare centers can help prevent serious complications and protect your bones, kidneys, and overall health.