What is secondary hyperparathyroidism?
A person with hyperparathyroidism has overactive parathyroid glands, which produce abnormally high levels of parathyroid hormone. Parathyroid hormone regulates calcium, phosphate, and magnesium levels in the body. Increased levels of parathyroid hormone cause the removal of calcium from the bones. This leads to weakness of the bones and abnormally high levels of calcium in the bloodstream. There are two main forms of hyperparathyroidism. Primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by an over-production of parathyroid hormone by the parathyroid glands. Secondary hyperparathyroidism caused by an illness outside of the parathyroid glands. Causes of secondary hyperparathyroidism include vitamin D deficiency, calcium deficiency, kidney disease and cancer.

What are the symptoms of secondary hyperparathyroidism?
Symptoms of secondary hyperparathyroidism may include bone pain, joint pains, constipation, depression, high blood pressure, increased thirst, increased urinary frequency, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, slow heart rate, or confusion.

How does the doctor treat secondary hyperparathyroidism?
Treatment for secondary hyperparathyroidism depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for secondary hyperparathyroidism may include calcium supplements, vitamin D supplements, and medications that reduce the loss of calcium from the bone.