Symptom 9. Muscle Weakness: The Silent Degradation
Parathyroid adenoma can also manifest as muscle weakness, a symptom that may often be dismissed as a natural result of aging or lack of exercise. Yet, in the context of parathyroid adenoma, it’s an essential sign of a significant bodily disturbance.
The excessive parathyroid hormone production that occurs with a parathyroid adenoma interferes with the body’s calcium regulation. Calcium is pivotal in muscle contraction and relaxation. When calcium levels are too high, it disrupts this balance, leading to muscle weakness.
This muscle weakness may be generalized, affecting multiple body parts, or it may be more localized. Individuals may find tasks that were previously easy, like opening a jar or climbing stairs, suddenly become more challenging. This can have a significant impact on the individual’s quality of life and independence.
Moreover, long-term unmanaged hypercalcemia can lead to muscle wasting, where muscles gradually waste away due to lack of use. This can exacerbate the weakness and lead to difficulties with mobility and performing everyday tasks.(9)
