What causes primary hyperparathyroidism?

Primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by benign tumors called adenomas that develop on one or more of the four parathyroid glands in your neck. These small growths cause the affected glands to produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH), which controls calcium levels in your blood. Less commonly, the condition can be caused by hyperplasia, where all four parathyroid glands become enlarged and overactive, or rarely by parathyroid cancer.

What is the best test for primary hyperparathyroidism?

The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), Intact test is the most important test for primary hyperparathyroidism because it directly measures how much PTH your parathyroid glands are producing. Elevated PTH levels combined with high blood calcium confirm the diagnosis. The Vitamin D test is also essential because it helps doctors understand how the excess PTH is affecting your calcium metabolism and bone health. These two tests together provide a complete picture of parathyroid gland function and help distinguish primary hyperparathyroidism from other conditions that affect calcium levels.

When should I get tested for primary hyperparathyroidism?

You should get tested if you experience frequent kidney stones, unexplained bone pain or fractures, persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep, depression or mood changes, or excessive thirst and urination. Testing is also important if routine blood work shows elevated calcium levels, or if you have a family history of parathyroid problems or endocrine disorders. Early detection through blood testing helps prevent serious complications like severe osteoporosis, kidney damage, and cardiovascular problems.

What are the symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism?

Primary hyperparathyroidism often causes kidney stones, bone pain and weakness, excessive fatigue, depression and memory problems, frequent urination and excessive thirst, nausea and loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Many people have mild or no symptoms initially, which is why the condition is often discovered through routine blood work showing elevated calcium levels. As the condition progresses, symptoms typically worsen and can significantly impact your quality of life.

Who is at risk for primary hyperparathyroidism?

Primary hyperparathyroidism is most common in postmenopausal women over age 50, though it can affect anyone. Your risk increases if you have a family history of parathyroid disorders, have received radiation therapy to your head or neck, have certain genetic conditions like multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN), or take lithium medication long-term. Women are two to three times more likely than men to develop this condition.

What happens if primary hyperparathyroidism is left untreated?

Untreated primary hyperparathyroidism leads to severe osteoporosis and increased fracture risk as excess PTH pulls calcium from your bones. You may develop kidney stones repeatedly, which can cause permanent kidney damage or kidney failure over time. The persistently high calcium levels can cause heart rhythm abnormalities, high blood pressure, and increased risk of heart disease. Other complications include peptic ulcers, pancreatitis, severe depression, and cognitive decline that significantly impacts daily functioning.

Can primary hyperparathyroidism be diagnosed with a blood test?

Primary hyperparathyroidism can be diagnosed with blood tests that measure parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium levels. The hallmark finding is elevated PTH along with high blood calcium, which confirms that your parathyroid glands are overactive. Additional blood tests for vitamin D, phosphorus, and kidney function help complete the picture. These simple blood tests are often all you need for diagnosis, though imaging studies may be added later to locate which parathyroid gland is affected before surgery.

How is primary hyperparathyroidism treated?

Primary hyperparathyroidism is most commonly treated with surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands, which cures the condition in about 95% of cases. If surgery is not recommended or you prefer to wait, your doctor will monitor your calcium levels, bone density, and kidney function regularly. Medications like calcimimetics can help lower calcium levels, and bisphosphonates can protect bone density. Drinking plenty of water, staying physically active, and avoiding medications that raise calcium levels are also important management strategies.

How can I prevent primary hyperparathyroidism?

Primary hyperparathyroidism cannot be prevented because it typically develops from benign tumors or gland enlargement that occur spontaneously. However, you can reduce complications by getting regular check-ups that include calcium testing, especially if you have risk factors like family history or previous radiation exposure. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels, staying well-hydrated, and exercising regularly help keep your bones strong and may reduce symptom severity if the condition develops.

What can I do at home for primary hyperparathyroidism?

At home, drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to help prevent kidney stones and flush excess calcium from your system. Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise like walking, jogging, or strength training to maintain bone density despite calcium loss. Avoid calcium supplements and excessive vitamin D unless directed by your doctor, as these can worsen high calcium levels. Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening bone pain, new kidney stones, or severe fatigue to your healthcare provider promptly.

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Primary Hyperparathyroidism Test

Primary Hyperparathyroidism Blood Test

What is Primary Hyperparathyroidism?

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a condition where one or more parathyroid glands produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH). This overproduction is caused by benign tumors (adenomas) or hyperplasia of the parathyroid glands, leading to elevated calcium levels in the blood. The Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), Intact test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures PTH levels that confirm overactive gland function.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 29, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

support@privatemdlabs.com