Treating parathyroid disorders is possible and in many cases will relieve the patient’s symptoms. The treatment depends on whether the patient has overactive (hyper) or underactive (hypo) parathyroid glands. The treatment method also depends on whether there is an underlying cause, such as kidney disease.

Patients with hyperparathyroidism may have few if any symptoms and may choose not to undergo treatment. In such cases, long-term monitoring is recommended to detect any changes in their condition that may require treatment. During this period of monitoring, physicians may make some of the following recommendations to prevent the condition from worsening:

• Drink adequate water
  
• Get frequent exercise
  
• Make and keep regular medical appointments
  
  

Patients at risk of complications such as osteoporosis may be prescribed preventive medications such as bisphosphonates.

Patients should make sure each of their physicians knows about their condition. Some therapies for other disorders may worsen the symptoms of hyperparathyroidism. These include certain types of diuretics, medications with lithium, prolonged bed rest and high-calcium diets.

In both hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism, patients should consume appropriate amounts of calcium and vitamin D. Hypoparathyroidism is most often treated with supplements of calcium and vitamin D. In the rare cases where hypoparathyroidism is permanent, these supplements are required for the rest of the patient’s life. However, it is important that patients do not self-medicate with calcium or vitamin D supplements as excess levels can result in additional complications.

In general, parathyroid disorders cannot be prevented. After undergoing thyroid or neck surgery, the physician may recommend that the patient watch for early indicators of hypoparathyroidism. Early detection of signs or symptoms can lead to early treatment with dietary supplements, which may reduce the risk of complications.