Hypercalcemia refers to a condition in which there are higher than normal levels of calcium in the body. Calcium is an important mineral for bone health and body functions. However, when excess calcium accumulates in the bloodstream, it can lead to health problems. It is therefore important that the diagnosis and treatment process is managed by healthcare professionals.
Hypercalcemia is a medical condition in which blood calcium levels in the body are higher than normal. Calcium is essential for bone health, nerve conduction, muscle contraction and many other important biological processes. However, hypercalcemia can occur when calcium accumulates unbalanced in the body or is not excreted sufficiently.
What are the symptoms of hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia is a condition in which blood calcium levels in the body are higher than normal. Symptoms of this condition can be mild or pronounced and can vary depending on the severity, cause and duration of hypercalcemia. Possible symptoms that are among the signs of hypercalcemia include:
- Fatigue and weakness,
- Loss of appetite and weight loss,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Tightness or burning when urinating
- Muscle weakness and aches,
- Skeletal pain
- Mental state changes,
- Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat),
- Hypertension (high blood pressure),
- Kidney stones
- Thirst and excessive urination,
- Bone fragility
What Causes Hypercalcemia (High Calcium)?
Hypercalcemia can have many different causes. The factors that cause calcium levels to be higher than normal can be listed as follows:
Excessive Calcium Intake: Taking high doses of calcium supplements or consuming foods containing excessive amounts of calcium can cause calcium levels to rise.
Hyperthyroidism: In hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is overactive, parathormone (PTH) levels can rise, increasing calcium absorption.
Bone Damage or Fractures: Bone destruction can cause calcium to be released from bone tissue, leading to increased calcium levels. Fractures or bone injuries can lead to this condition.
Kidney Problems: The kidneys remove excess calcium from the body through urine. But some kidney problems can prevent calcium from being excreted effectively, which can cause calcium levels to rise.
Some Types of Cancer: Some types of cancer, especially breast, lung, kidney and lymph gland cancer, can cause calcium to be released from the bones.
Vitamin D Poisoning: Excessive intake of vitamin D can cause calcium levels to rise. This can often be the result of excessive supplementation or overexposure to sunlight.
Some Medicines: Some medications can increase the release of calcium from bones or reduce the kidneys' ability to excrete calcium.
Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol use can affect calcium levels and cause hypercalcemia.
How is hypercalcemia (high calcium) diagnosed?
Hypercalcemia (high calcium) is diagnosed with methods such as blood calcium levels, urine calcium levels, parathormone (PTH) levels, vitamin D levels and imaging tests. These tests are used to determine the cause of high calcium levels and to create the appropriate treatment plan. These tests, which should be performed by a healthcare professional, help to diagnose hypercalcemia accurately and effectively.
What Causes Hypercalcemia (High Calcium)?
The effects of hypercalcemia can include health complications such as kidney stones, heart problems, bone weakness and fragility, and kidney problems. Hypercalcemia can increase the formation of kidney stones, cause heart rhythm disturbances and hypertension, weaken bones and have adverse effects on kidney function. It is therefore important to identify the underlying cause of hypercalcemia and implement appropriate treatment and management strategies.
How is hypercalcemia (high calcium) treated?
Treatment of hypercalcemia is a process that aims to effectively correct high blood calcium levels. Treatment is individualized according to the cause and severity of hypercalcemia and the patient's general health status. Usually, methods such as increasing fluid intake, medication, hormone therapy, low-calcium diets and treatment of the underlying cause are used. Treatment of hypercalcemia should be guided by healthcare professionals and tailored to individual needs. By applying the necessary treatment, calcium levels can be controlled and possible complications can be prevented.