Why does parathyroid disease cause heartburn and intestinal problems?

Question

help much appreciated.

Answer 1

High calcium levels, such as those seen in hyperparathyroidism, cause inflammation in the lining of the stomach. This can be what causes the intestinal problems and leads to heartburn (or reflux).

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Parathyroid glands secrete a hormone called PHT. The PHT regulates the exchange of calcium between the blood and the bones. When the parathyroid gland is over active, too much calcium is pulled out of the bones. This is called hyperparathyroidism or parathyroid disease.

Bones need calcium for strength. The brain needs calcium to think and muscles need calcium to contract. Too little calcium in the bones will cause a serious condition called osteoporosis (brittle bone disease). Too much calcium in the blood increases the risk of having a stroke and can make people feel sick (stomach pain and heartburn).

My A&P professor drilled this into our heads

Answer 3

Here's a lovely article which explains pretty much all the manifestations of hypercalcemia seen as a result of hyperparathyroidism:

http://www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic260....