Are your calcium levels out of whack? Let's learn about this PTH blood test (Parathyroid Hormone Blood Test)!

We've all heard since childhood that calcium is essential for strong bones (including teeth). That's true. But did you know that our bodies also need a certain amount of calcium to maintain healthy blood vessels, muscles, and the nervous system? Perhaps your recent blood test showed that your calcium level was too high or too low. If so, your doctor may suggest another special blood test. That is a test that measures the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Why is the doctor asking you to do this PTH test?

Simply put, this hormone called PTH is a major factor that controls the calcium level in our body. This hormone is produced by four very small glands in our neck. We call these parathyroid glands. Think of it as having four small 'sensors' in our neck that control the calcium level in our body. These work like this:

• When your blood calcium levels drop , these glands release the hormone PTH into your blood. This hormone PTH goes to the bones and kidneys and puts calcium back into your blood, bringing calcium levels back to normal.
• When your blood calcium levels rise , these glands stop releasing the PTH hormone, which stops the unnecessary accumulation of calcium in the blood.

Now you understand, right? If there is a problem with your calcium level, the doctor is doing this PTH test to find out exactly whether the cause is a problem with the functioning of the parathyroid glands or if there is another reason.

What are the symptoms of calcium increase and decrease?

If your calcium levels are abnormal, meaning either too high (Hypercalcemia) or too low (Hypocalcemia), you may experience certain symptoms. The table below will help you understand this more clearly.

What are the benefits and risks of this test?

Actually, this PTH blood test is very simple. There is no reason to be afraid. As with any blood test, there are some minor risks.

• You may feel a little pain where the needle is inserted.
• The area may be slightly bruised or sore after the test.
• Very rarely, an infection may occur or you may feel faint after having your blood drawn.

But compared to these small risks, the benefits of this test are very large . Because this test can tell your doctor exactly whether your body is producing too much or too little PTH hormone. It can also help confirm that the problem is not with the parathyroid glands and look for other causes of abnormal calcium levels.

How do you prepare before the test?

Your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop taking certain medications or supplements, such as vitamins and calcium, a day or two before the test. However, never stop taking any medication without first consulting your doctor. You should definitely tell your doctor, especially if you are taking medication for other conditions.

How to understand the results?

After the blood sample is sent to the lab, it can take a few days for the results to come back. This time can vary depending on the lab and your doctor's needs. PTH levels are usually measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). The normal range can vary slightly from one lab to another. A healthy person's PTH level is usually between 10-65 pg/mL. However, don't jump to conclusions based on the numbers on your test results.Only your doctor can compare those values ​​to your calcium levels and explain exactly what they mean. The table below gives an idea of ​​some of the common causes of high or low PTH levels.

Will there be more tests to be done next?

Yes, depending on the results of the PTH test, you may need to have several more tests. It's like a detective following one clue after another.

• For example, if your PTH level is high but your calcium level is low , it means that your parathyroid glands are working, but for some other reason your calcium levels are not rising. Your doctor may then check your vitamin D, phosphorus, and magnesium levels.

• On the other hand, if your calcium level is high and your PTH level is high , you may have hyperparathyroidism. Your doctor will then do an X-ray or other imaging test to check your parathyroid glands. They may also look for swelling or tumors.

The treatment for this condition is surgery to remove the gland. However, if the condition is not severe, or if there are no major symptoms such as kidney damage or bone weakness, your doctor may prescribe medication (such as Cinacalcet (Sensipar)) and have you monitor your calcium and PTH levels at regular intervals . PTH, Parathyroid Hormone, Calcium, Blood Test, Hypercalcemia, Hypocalcemia, Parathyroid, Hormone, Kidney Disease