4. Abdominal Pain: The Troublesome Gut Feeling
Abdominal discomfort can be a telltale sign of PHPT. This pain can be vague, often dismissed as indigestion or a minor upset stomach. However, when linked to PHPT, the cause might be attributed to hypercalcemia affecting digestive function.
The pain may be accompanied by other digestive issues such as constipation or nausea. These symptoms can stem from the calcium imbalance interfering with muscle contractions and nerve functions in the digestive tract.
Appetite may wane as well, leading to unintended weight loss. This loss of appetite can result from a combination of abdominal pain and a general feeling of malaise that accompanies PHPT.
Addressing gastrointestinal symptoms involves dietary adjustments, increased fiber intake, and hydration. However, for those with PHPT, the focus should also be on treating the hypercalcemia to alleviate the root cause of the discomfort. (4)
