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A cancerous growth in the parathyroid gland is commonly known as parathyroid cancer. The main task of the parathyroid glands is to manage the calcium level in the human body. There are four of these glands and they are situated at the bottom of the neck. Since both men and women may be affected by this type of cancer, it is very important to know about its symptoms, causes and treatment, so that it may be detected in the early stages and be treated. Parathyroid cancer is a very rare type of cancer that occurs in the parathyroid gland situated on the thyroid glands. These glands are found in sets of two situated on the top of the lobes of the thyroid gland. Parathyroid cancer is usually found in men and women above the age of 30. However, in some cases this disease can also occur in the early years as well. Causes of Parathyroid Cancer It is still a matter of research to find out the exact cause for parathyroid cancer. However, people who suffer from multiple endocrine neoplasia disease of type I have more chance of suffering from parathyroid cancer. People who are exposed to excessive radiation may also suffer from this disease. Some cases are also found in people who are exposed to radiation only on the neck or head. Symptoms of Parathyroid Cancer Since it is very difficult to find the exact cause of parathyroid cancer, it would be better to keep a check on your overall health and look out for any abnormalities in your general health. An early detection is an early cure for parathyroid cancer. It is not difficult to discover the symptoms for this type of cancer. Some of the most common symptoms may include bone pain, which may occur due to high levels of calcium. When suffering from this disease, it is very common to have increased levels of calcium in the human body that may affect various systems and body parts. Constipation, frequent thirst, fatigue, and frequent urination are also some of the common symptoms that are observed with parathyroid cancer. Since these symptoms are also common to diabetes and similar health problems, most people ignore them. If you experience symptoms like kidney stones, fractures, muscle weakness, loss of appetite or nausea, etc., you should immediately consult your doctor and check for parathyroid cancer. Apart from all these symptoms, if you experience a sore throat for a long period of time, or can feel a tumor with your hand by touching your neck, you should not waste any time in consulting your doctor about this disease. Treatment for Parathyroid Cancer Treatment for this disease may include various hormones or drugs that can lower the calcium levels in the patient's body. Some drugs like pamidronate oretidronate may also help in stopping the breakdown of the bones. Apart from all this, fluids through the veins are also given to the patient so that they can restore the energy that has been lost due to this disease. Chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation treatments are also available for parathyroid cancer and this may depend on the condition of the patient.
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