Parathyroid removal

[Heymike]

Hi everybody,
I'm having my parathyroid glands removed soon as they have gone out of control. I've had very high levels the past couple of months.  I tried sensipar, not much help.  My doctor thinks this is the best thing to do. I would like to hear for those of you that have had this done.  Did it make you feel better?  I sure hope so I need some relief.  My symptoms are really bad joint pain mostly.   Any input would be greatly appreciated.     Thanks Mike

[aharris2]

Hi Mike,

My brother had his removed about 3 years ago (after trying sensipar, which also didn't help him). He had bone pain and got almost immediate relief after the operation. He had had a broken leg that really didn't start healing (more than a year later) until the parathyroids were removed.

Benefits:
- The end of bone pain!
- Protection against osteoporosis and the extreme quality of life issues it can cause - if this has already begun to develop in you (and be assured that it has for anyone with a very high pth), the calcium will start returning to your bones after surgery. You will be put on calcium for awhile after the surgery to address "hungry bone syndrome" as your bones begin to rebuild themselves.
- (This one is just our observation - it became easier to control my brother's phosporus level. I'm not really sure why.)

Best wishes for the surgery!

[Heymike]

Thanks for the info.  I had similar input from another D patient.  It doesn't sound like there's much down side.  Glad to hear your brother benefited and I'm looking foward to getting it done.  Thanks again...Mike