What Are the Parathyroid Glands?

Parathyroid glands are small but essential glands located in your neck that play a crucial role in regulating and controlling calcium levels within your body.

In a healthy individual, there are typically four parathyroid glands situated in close proximity to your thyroid gland. Generally, there are two glands on each side of your neck, located just behind it.

These glands are relatively small, measuring normally about 5-7 millimeters in size and weighing approximately 30-60 milligrams. They have a distinctive yellow-tan appearance that can be recognized during medical evaluations.

These vital glands manage calcium levels in your body through the production of two important hormones: Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), which functions to increase calcium levels, and Calcitonin, which works to reduce calcium levels in the bloodstream.