Thyroid & parathyroid
Your thyroid keeps metabolism on track while your parathyroids protect bone and muscle health. If function is off in either, symptoms can affect energy and mood.
Booking Protection
If the specialist you book isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll cover a rebooking to someone who is. See our T&Cs for more.
Booking Protection
If the specialist you book isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll cover a rebooking to someone who is. See our T&Cs for more.
About the thyroid and parathyroid
The thyroid and parathyroid glands sit in the lower neck, just below the voice box (larynx). These small but powerful glands control vital body functions – the thyroid regulates metabolism, and the parathyroid glands regulate calcium balance, which supports bone strength. Problems in this area can cause a wide range of symptoms – such as tiredness, weight changes, mood swings, neck swelling, or bone pain.
The thyroid regulates hormones and metabolism, affecting energy, mood, heart function and temperature control. The parathyroid glands regulate calcium levels, which are vital for healthy bones, nerves and muscles. When these glands aren’t working properly, it can impact many aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Common thyroid and parathyroid conditions we treat
We diagnose and treat a wide range of issues – from overactive or underactive glands to nodules and goitres – so you get the right care, fast.
Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid speeds up your metabolism, causing symptoms like weight loss, anxiety, sweating or a rapid heartbeat. If untreated, it can lead to serious problems such as heart disease or weak bones.
Thyroid goitre
A goitre is an enlarged thyroid. It may be small or more obvious and can cause pressure when swallowing or breathing. Most are benign, but some relate to over- or underactive thyroid function.
Thyroid cancer
This is when abnormal cells grow in the thyroid gland in your neck. It’s less common than many other cancers and is usually very treatable, especially when found early.
Hyperparathyroidism
When one or more of the parathyroid glands become overactive, it raises calcium levels in your blood and can cause tiredness, aches, mood changes, bone loss, or kidney stones.
Parathyroid adenoma
A parathyroid adenoma is a non-cancerous growth on one of the parathyroid glands in the neck. These tumours can cause hyperparathyroidism and related symptoms.
Parathyroid cancer
A rare tumour that forms in one of the parathyroid glands in the neck. It often causes the gland to become overactive, leading to very high calcium levels in the blood.
When to see a specialist
If you’ve noticed unexplained fatigue, changes in weight, mood swings, or neck swelling – or your blood tests show high calcium or thyroid hormone levels – it’s worth booking an appointment. Early assessment and treatment can prevent complications and help you feel more like yourself again.
Experts in thyroid & parathyroid care
- JB
Mr James Barnes
Thyroid & Parathyroid
BSc, MBChB, DPhil, FRCS
Available from 11/27/2025Mr James Barnes is a Consultant Surgeon specialising in parathyroid surgery. Based at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, he provides expert care in complex parathyroid and vascular access procedures, as well as living donor and non-donor kidney surgery.
The Priory HospitalThe Harborne Hospital5.00 • 7 Reviews18 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6160449Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - MF
Miss Melanie Field
Thyroid & Parathyroid
MBChB, MD, MMedEd
Available from 12/5/2025Miss Mel Field is a Consultant Surgeon specialising in renal transplantation, surgery for kidney failure, and complex parathyroid surgery. She practises at The Harborne Hospital, The Priory Hospital, and Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, offering expert, patient-centred care for people with advanced kidney and parathyroid conditions.
The Priory Hospital4.97 • 11 Reviews23 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6048883Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included