Parathyroid and calcium disorders

Thyroid and Calcium Disorders: A Close Relationship That Affects Your Health

The thyroid gland is an important organ that plays a vital role in regulating many bodily functions, including calcium absorption. When thyroid function is disrupted, it can directly affect calcium levels in the body, which may lead to serious health complications.

Impact of Thyroid Disorders on Calcium Levels

The thyroid gland secretes hormones necessary to regulate calcium absorption from the intestines and its reabsorption from the kidneys. These hormones include:

• Calcitonin: Plays an important role in regulating blood calcium levels, as it prevents its release from the bones and enhances its absorption from the intestines
• Thyroxine: Helps regulate calcium absorption from the intestines and its reabsorption from the kidneys

Hypothyroidism

• Osteoporosis: The risk of osteoporosis increases, making bones more prone to fracture
• Muscle cramps: Low calcium levels may lead to muscle cramps and bone pain
• Fatigue and exhaustion: Low calcium may cause tiredness and fatigue

Hyperthyroidism

• Hypercalcaemia: Elevated calcium levels can lead to kidney stones, heart problems and gastrointestinal disease
• Muscle weakness: Elevated calcium levels can cause muscle weakness

The Importance of Medical Testing

It is important to have regular medical tests to measure thyroid hormone and calcium levels, particularly for those at increased risk of thyroid disorders, such as:

• People with a family history of thyroid disease
• People with symptoms of thyroid disorders, such as fatigue, changes in weight or hair loss
• People taking certain medicines that may affect thyroid function

Treatment of Thyroid and Calcium Disorders

Treatment depends on the type of disorder and the severity of symptoms. Treatment options include:

• Medical therapy: Medicines that modify thyroid hormones, calcium supplements or vitamin D
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be used to treat hyperthyroidism or parathyroid disease

Tips for Maintaining Thyroid and Calcium Health

• Follow a healthy diet rich in calcium: Consuming calcium-rich foods such as dairy products and dark leafy vegetables helps maintain calcium levels
• Get enough vitamin D: Vitamin D helps the intestines absorb calcium. It can be obtained through sunlight exposure or by taking vitamin D supplements
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps strengthen bones and improve thyroid health
• Speak to your doctor: Your doctor is the best source for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of thyroid and calcium disorders

Contact Us

For more information, please contact Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City on 800 7762 or schedule an appointment.