The symptoms of hypoparathyroidism are mainly due to low levels of calcium in the blood, which leads to a variety of symptoms including fatigue, muscle weakness, twitching, and cramping spasms of the hands, feet, arms, or face (tetany). The onset of symptoms in cases of congenital hypoparathyroidism is usually during early childhood but can occur anytime from birth to adulthood. In some cases, seizures during infancy or childhood may be the first sign of hypoparathyroidism.1
Chronic hypoparathyroidism in childhood may affect the teeth, including the underdevelopment of the hard outer layer of the teeth (enamel hypoplasia). Sudden muscular spasms affecting the larynx (laryngospasm) causes closure of the upper end of the trachea and prevents air from reaching the lungs. Affected individuals sometimes develop calcium deposits (calcifications) in the brain or the kidneys (nephrocalcinosis). Chronic hypoparathyroidism may also lead to formation of stones in the kidney or collecting ducts (nephrolithiasis).
- National Library of Medicine. (2010). Hypoparathyroidism. Retrieved June 20, 2012, from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000385.htm [top]