Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH), disrupting the body's calcium balance. Although this disease primarily affects bone metabolism, it can also have a significant impact on the kidneys. In fact, several studies suggest that people with hyperparathyroidism have a higher risk of developing kidney stones.
Kidney stones form when there is an excess of certain substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, or uric acid, which crystallize and form stones. Normally, the kidneys filter and eliminate these waste products, but when there is an overproduction of calcium due to hyperparathyroidism, the risk of developing kidney stones increases considerably.
In people with hyperparathyroidism, elevated PTH levels can contribute to kidney stone formation due to the following factors:
- Increased calcium release from bones into the blood: PTH stimulates the release of calcium from bones into the blood, which raises calcium levels in the body (hypercalcemia). As a result, the kidneys must filter and eliminate this excess calcium, which can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate kidney stones.
- Increased calcium excretion in urine (hypercalciuria): The combination of hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria creates a favorable environment for the crystallization of calcium salts in the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney stone disease.
- Impaired kidney function: Prolonged exposure to elevated PTH levels can affect the kidneys' ability to regulate mineral balance, not only increasing stone formation but also potentially leading to a long-term decrease in kidney function.
- Interference with phosphate metabolism: PTH reduces phosphate levels in the blood by increasing its elimination through the kidneys. This alteration in calcium and phosphate balance can also influence kidney stone formation.
How can I prevent it?
If you have hyperthyroidism and are concerned about kidney stones, take the following measures:
- Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and stay active
- Drink 2 to 3 liters daily; adequate hydration is essential to prevent kidney stones.
- Maintain a balanced diet tailored to your specific case. You can consult with our nutritionist for appropriate guidance.
- Products like Lit-Control® pH Balance contain ingredients such as phytate, magnesium, and polyphenols that will help you maintain urinary system well-being. Discover more!
- In more acute cases, surgical removal of the overactive parathyroid gland may be necessary.
References
- González-Moreno, F., Gómez-Moreno, G., & García-Cabrera, E. (2010). Renal lithiasis in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism: Evolution and treatment. Revista Española de Enfermedades Metabólicas Óseas, 21(1), 5-11. Retrieved from https://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?pid=S0004-06142010000100005&script=sci_arttext&utm_source=chatgpt.com
- MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Hyperparathyroidism. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/001215.htm
- Parathyroid.com. (n.d.). Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.parathyroid.com/paratiroide/sintomas.html
