The Role of Hyperparathyroidism in Insomnia: Insights from Recent Research
Dr. Danish and his team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry frequently encounter patients experiencing sleep disturbances, often linked to underlying medical conditions such as primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). PHPT is a condition characterized by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone, leading to elevated calcium levels in the blood. This hormonal imbalance can manifest in various ways, including sleep disturbances and insomnia. By addressing these underlying issues, Dr. Danish and his team aim to improve the overall well-being of their patients through a comprehensive approach that includes medication management, lifestyle adjustments, and therapeutic interventions.
The Impact of Parathyroidectomy on Sleep Disturbances
Recent studies have highlighted the significant role that PHPT plays in causing sleep disturbances. A study published in the World Journal of Surgery investigated the incidence of sleep disturbances in patients with PHPT and evaluated the effects of parathyroidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the overactive parathyroid gland[1].
Study Overview
The study involved 197 patients diagnosed with PHPT, out of which 115 completed both pre- and post-operative questionnaires assessing their sleep quality using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). The results indicated that 62.6% of these patients experienced sleep difficulties, with 25.2% meeting the criteria for clinical insomnia before surgery[1].
Reduction in Insomnia Severity
Following parathyroidectomy, there was a significant reduction in the mean ISI score, from 10.3 pre-operatively to 6.2 post-operatively. Notably, 68.7% of patients showed improvement in their ISI scores, and 72.4% of those with clinical insomnia pre-surgery experienced resolution of their symptoms post-surgery. Additionally, patients reported an increase in total hours slept and a decrease in the number of awakenings during the night[1].
Biochemical and Demographic Factors
The study found no significant correlation between demographic variables, biochemical profiles, or the presence of obstructive sleep apnea and the incidence of clinical insomnia. This suggests that the improvement in sleep quality post-parathyroidectomy is likely due to the correction of the hormonal imbalance rather than other factors[1].
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and His Team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we take pride in our ability to practice the most subtle nuances of psychiatry, which is an inherently subjective field full of misdiagnoses and lazy and inaccurate assessment techniques. We want to provide the level of care we would want for our own family members. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for PHPT or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
For More on This Topic and Related Subjects, Check Out These Blogs by Dr. Danish:
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