Hypoparathyroidism Support Group

Hypoparathyroidism is decreased function of the parathyroid glands, leading to decreased levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). The consequence, hypocalcemia, is a serious medical condition. This presents with tremor, tetany and, eventually, convulsions. Severe hypocalcemia, a potentially life-threatening condition, is treated as soon as possible with intravenous calcium.

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Endocrine System
/ Hypoparathyroidism Support Group

Hypoparathyroidism and sleeplessness

deleted_user
deleted_user
Ever since I developed hypoparathyroidism (hpth) I was no longer able to sleep 6 to 8 hours. I now sleep 3-4 hours even though I am tired. This has affected my memory, attention, focus and I am afraid I will develop a dementia due to a shrinking brain that does not get sleep. I take additional calcium sometimes if my body is restless and this sometimes help. I hate to take more calcium be/c I am trying to protect my kidneys. I take potassium and sometimes this helps to sleep. I take Tylenol PM and this helps but it dries my mouth and eyes. Any suggestions as to what I can do?
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hi Elisse!

I'm very sorry to hear about your sleeplessness. Not being able to sleep is a special slice of hell.

My sleeping problems have never been as bad ( would just wake up constantly during the night so I slept but didn't have refreshing sleep). For me, melatonin helps (I take it about 30 minutes before bedtime), also St. John's Wort and Valerian root. If I really need some sleep, I find that taking benadryl helps.

Good luck getting some good sleep!
deleted_user
deleted_user
It could be possible that you're not absorbing enough of the calcium you are taking. Not sure if you're on Calcitrol but if so, check with your doctor about increasing your dose slightly so you can absorb the calcium better.

I have not had any issues with sleep but since you said if you take more calcium you seem to feel better, I thought I'd offer my two cents...

Good Luck!
Awakening1531
Awakening1531
For me, it also helped to get the menopausal hormone stuff dealt with. More progesterone helped me sleep.
Tawanda1656
Tawanda1656
Hi! I know how you feel, and unfortunately, doctors have never helped me, so I spent over ten years researching and reading medical books and studies. First, make sure you are NOT taking calcium carbonate--it hardly absorbs. Take Calcium Citrate Malate with magnesium and vtamin D3 (NOT D2). This is the brand I use because its all in one:
https://www.gnc.com/best-sellers-shop-all/717643.html#q=calcimate&lang=default&start=1
I was concerned about the kidney issues as well, but just keep an eye on it. Chitosan powder in smoothies (just a pinch) will keep your creatinine levels right, which are a big indicator of kidney issues.

The MOST important thing is to take 3-4 doses a day of the Calcimate Plus. I can't sleep without my clacium being right, and eventually, your calcium will get so low your throat can spasm and cause you to be unable to breathe. In addition, NO alcohol. If you must, only hard alcohol (beer and wine are the absolute worst for calcium.

Hope that helps!