Parathyroid

Parathyroid hormone is an essential hormone responsible for calcium, phosphorus, and bone metabolism.  

Our endocrinologist Dr. Makhija is an expert in parathyroid and calcium disorders. She understands the disease process and how it affects each patient’s life. Dr. Makhija and her team offer holistic and comprehensive expertise throughout Central California and via telemedicine to all residents in the state of California. Call the Unified Endocrine office at 559-272-9192.  

Q: Where is the parathyroid gland and what is a parathyroid hormone?

A: Parathyroid glands are small glands located behind the thyroid gland and usually four in number. They produce an essential hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH) which is important to regulate calcium, phosphorus, and bone metabolism.  

Q: What are parathyroid disorders/diseases?

A: Excess release of parathyroid hormone by one or more of the parathyroid glands is called primary hyperparathyroidism which presents with high levels of calcium in the blood or kidney stones, low bone density, osteoporosis and/or other symptoms related to hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood). 

Other conditions are called secondary hyperparathyroidism and tertiary hyperparathyroidism. 

Q: How is a parathyroid hormone disorder managed at Unified Endocrine? 

A: If any individual is found to have high calcium in the blood, and it's related to parathyroid hormone, then further evaluation is managed by an endocrinologist. Based on the reason for abnormal levels, a detailed laboratory test, a bone density test, a bedside neck ultrasound, and as clinically indicated a parathyroid scan is ordered. 

Management is surgical or conservative based on this evaluation. Dr. Makhija collaborates with the endocrine surgeon to coordinate the best, evidence-based, state-of-the-art care. 

If surgical management is not indicated, then appropriate medical therapy and periodic monitoring are discussed. 

Your appointments can be in-person, via telemedicine for patients residing in California to help you stay on track and adjust your health plan as needed.

A concierge or direct specialty care doesn’t bill your health insurance for the consultation which allows Dr. Makhija to spend an ample amount of time with you as a patient, listening and understanding the symptoms and addressing the root cause of every disease. This establishes a foundation to discuss lifestyle, and medications as well as educate and empower you with the right tools to get the best care.  

For comprehensive endocrine care from an expert in her field, contact Unified Endocrine at 559-272-9192 or email us for an appointment today.