High Blood Calcium
High blood calcium, also called hypercalcemia, means that there is too much calcium in the blood. Most of the calcium in
a person’s body is in the bones and teeth. Some calcium in blood helps the body to work right. Too much calcium in the blood affects the nerves, digestive tract, heart and kidneys.
Signs
Some people with high blood calcium have signs, while others do not
Signs of high blood calcium include:
- Muscle weakness
- Poor appetite, weight loss
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Feeling tired
- Increased urine output
- Confusion, behavior changes or loss of memory
- Loss of interest in work or decreased attention span
- Pain in lower back or sides, often caused by kidney stones
- Bones become fragile and can break
Causes
The most common causes of high blood calcium are:
- Lack of activity or exercise
- Overactive gland that controls how much calcium your body needs
- Cancer in the bone or blood
- Renal failure
- Taking large amounts of Vitamins A, D, and calcium
- Some medicines
Your Care
To treat high blood calcium and prevent more loss of calcium from your bones, your doctor may ask you to do one or more of these:
- Drink 3 to 4 quarts or 3 to 4 liters of liquids each day.
- Take your medicine as ordered.
- Exercise if you are able.
- Get out of bed, sit in a chair, and walk as much as possible. Ask for help if you need it.
- If you are in bed all of the time, move from side to side at least every 2 hours.
If your calcium is high because you have an overactive gland, surgery may be needed.
Conclusion:
Talk to your doctor or nurse if you have any questions or concerns.
Reference:
Disclaimer:
This report provides general health information, not professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for any questions regarding your medical condition.