Hello, has anyone had a parathyroidec... - Bone Health and O...

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Hello, has anyone had a parathyroidectomy?

PorridgeLover0106 profile image

Hello, has anyone had a parathyroidectomy?

I am on the nhs waiting list for one but very undecided about having it. I had a sestamibi parathyroid scan which apparently suggested possibility of a left lower parathyroid adenoma. Would welcome any feedback. Thanks.

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PorridgeLover0106
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LM100 profile image
LM100

My mum had one about 12 years ago and she's now 78. There was no visible scarring and she recovered very quickly. I think only the problematic one was removed but I might be wrong. It sorted her calcium problems. She has 2 trips to A&E with kidney stones before they thought to investigate. What are your concerns? You might get better responses if you post on the thyroid/parathyroid forum on here.

PorridgeLover0106 profile image
PorridgeLover0106 in reply toLM100

Thank you LM100 for replying and your info. I am your Mum's age now and my concerns are that it is only a possibility, no concrete evidence as far as I can see. Will try on the thyroid/parathyroid forum.

bluebird567 profile image
bluebird567

Hi, Unfortunately I am experiencing fatigue with my other problems but wanted to reply to you.

Yes I have had a parathyroidectomy - please read my experience and earlier posts by clicking on my profile picture.

It is best to have the faulty parathyroid(s) removed - for 100% cure.

I hope I have helped but please ask if you need more information.

Best wishes to you.

PorridgeLover0106 profile image
PorridgeLover0106 in reply tobluebird567

Thank you, will look at your posts. Best wishes.

PorridgeLover0106 profile image
PorridgeLover0106 in reply tobluebird567

Do hope your other problems get sorted and you don't feel so tired.

bluebird567 profile image
bluebird567 in reply toPorridgeLover0106

Thank you. And don't be afraid. Your doctors will know straight away if one or two need to be removed.

No noticeable change in voice but I had trouble swallowing for a few weeks after. The doctors made a bigger incision in my neck as they needed to check lower (in my thorax) as something was showing on the scan. It turned out to be a fatty lymph nodes but I'm glad they checked it at the same time. I hardly have any sign of a scar now 5+ years later. And my two remaining parathyroids are working as they should. 👍

Good luck and best wishes to getting back to full health. 🙏

PorridgeLover0106 profile image
PorridgeLover0106 in reply tobluebird567

👍🤞

Capan24 profile image
Capan24

I had primary hyperparathyroidism in 2014 with the removal of two parathyroid glands related to adenomas. I had this done at a specialty clinic, Norman parathyroid center in Tampa Florida. The procedure only lasted about 15 minutes. Recovery was good just a stiff neck for a while and a small one inch scar on my neck that is barely noticeable now. If you do have hyperparathyroidism, I would recommend getting the surgery. Your parathyroid regulates calcium and vitamin D. Not having the surgery could lead to more bone loss, osteoporosis and cardiac issues with blood pressure. With my calcium being elevated, I had higher blood pressure. Once I had the surgery, I felt fine. No more high blood pressure, no more fatigue. I would just say to make sure that you have someone that specializes in this to do the surgery. I still take daily calcium with Vitamin D because I eat a plant-based diet and don't get enough calcium from food. Since my surgery I've had no further issues. Also the scan you had does not always pick up if you have tumors. When I had the surgery, that's where they found the second tumor. At this center after they remove the tumors, they also check the other glands to make sure they are working well. Good luck to you

PorridgeLover0106 profile image
PorridgeLover0106 in reply toCapan24

Interesting information, thank you. I do have osteoporosis diagnosed in 2016 but have had more spinal fractures since, blood pressure low rather than high. Quite concerned about the change in my voice with the operation though, forgot to mention on earlier replies. Best wishes.

Capan24 profile image
Capan24 in reply toPorridgeLover0106

I had no change in my voice from the surgery. If you have osteoporosis, getting your the surgery done if you have hyperparathyroidism should help stop your bones from getting worse. You may also be able to build them back up with diet, supplements, and weight-bearing exercise. I take vitamin K2 100 MCG along with my calcium to help it get to my bones. Also do a lot of weight-bearing exercises. My last dexa scan did show an improvement in my bones. I went from osteoporosis in my hip to osteopenia. And my spine improved a little too. I know surgery is a lot to think about. I'm sure you'll make the decision that's right for you.

Here is a link to the place I had my surgery at. They have a lot of good information. If you go to the top right of the site where the three lines are, you can access a lot of articles regarding parathyroidism. parathyroid.com/patient

PorridgeLover0106 profile image
PorridgeLover0106 in reply toCapan24

Thanks so much for your help.

Southerngirl2787 profile image
Southerngirl2787

I had one tumor removed, it saved my spine and life. It had grown for years and years...I'm 4 fusions, 10 spinal fractures, 2 tibia nerve transfers, each wrist/hand nerve damage, surgery repaired it...and 6 more discs that are failing. They can also cause heart attacks, strokes, brain memory issues. These are not optional to leave in and live a normal life. There is no OP med that will restore your bone density if you have a parathyroid tumor. Let me add, go to a place that has experience...I went to the Norman Parathyroid Center in Tampa FL...cost less than going to MD Anderson here in my area...also, MDA doesn't have the expertise and success rate that NPC does...my procedure was longer than average, I had already had C5-6 fusion, so much scar tissue had developed...but it was still outpatient, and I was there total time 5 hours. Many hospitals don't understand how to find these and get them out without damage.

Fran57 profile image
Fran57

Hello. Yes, I had a parathyroidectomy a few years ago ( my first operation ever!) at age 60.

I had fallen, fractured my pelvis (first broken bone!) and was told I had osteoporosis (great shock!)

I was told I needed to start medication but I did my own research and discover I had hyperparathyroidism ( my GP had no idea of the link and was very grateful for my information)

So far, I have chosen not to take any medication.

The surgeon told me no amount of medication would have changed anything all the time I had hyperparathyroidism.

If there’s anything I can answer, please do ask me.

Best wishes,

Fran 😊

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