Are You Having Too Much Calcium In Your Blood? Find The Solution Here
Calcium is an essential mineral for strong bones, muscle function, and nerve transmission. However, having too much calcium in your blood can lead to a condition known as hypercalcemia.
In this article, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of hypercalcemia, and provide solutions for managing this condition.
What is hypercalcemia?
Table of Contents
Hypercalcemia is a medical condition where there is high levels of calcium in your blood. The normal blood calcium levels ranges from 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL. When it is above this range you have hypercalcemia.
What are the causes of hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Overactive parathyroid glands
- Multiple myeloma
- Thiazide diuretics
- Being immobilized for a long period of time
- Taking too much vitamin D
What are the symptoms of hypercalcemia?
The symptoms of hypercalcemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness
- Disorientation
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Bone pain
How do I treat hypercalcemia?
The treatment for hypercalcemia depends on the cause of the condition. Some treatment options include:
- Intravenous fluids: This helps to flush out excess calcium from the body.
- Medications: Bisphosphonates and calcitonin can help reduce calcium levels in the blood.
- Surgery: This may be required to remove the parathyroid gland if it is overactive.
How much calcium do you need?
The recommended daily intake of calcium for adults is 1000-1200 milligrams per day. Generally, a calcium level above 10.5 mg/dL is high and may require medical attention.
However, the specific threshold for hypercalcemia may vary depending on the individual’s medical history and other factors.
The recommended daily intake of calcium by age and gender is as follows:
- Children 1-3 years: 700 mg/day
- Children 4-8 years: 1,000 mg/day
- Teens 9-19 years: 1,300 mg/day
- Adults 20-50 years: 1,000 mg/day
- Adult men 51-70 years: 1,000 mg/day
- Adult women 51-70 years: 1,200 mg/day
- Adults 70+ years: 1,200 mg/day
- Pregnant women: 1,000 mg/day
- Lactating mothers: 1,300 mg/day
As people age, the ability to absorb calcium decreases, so older adults should adjust their calcium intake to meet the recommended daily intake and it must not exceed the upper limit.
How do I prevent hypercalcemia?
Prevention of hypercalcemia involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Some of the common prevention measures include:
Limit calcium intake
Consuming high amounts of calcium-rich foods and taking supplements increases the risk of hypercalcemia.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water gets rid of excess calcium from the body and prevents further absorption.
Regular exercise
Regular exercise maintains bone density and prevent the release of calcium from the bones.
Lifestyle changes
Making changes to your diet and exercise routine can help manage hypercalcemia. Eating a diet low in calcium and avoiding vitamin D supplements.
Conclusion: Are you having too much calcium in your blood?
Hypercalcemia can turn into a serious medical condition if left untreated. It is important to recognize the symptoms and seek medical attention if you suspect hypercalcemia.
Some of the effective solutions to reduce high blood calcium levels include making dietary changes, drinking water, exercising regularly, and taking medications as prescribed by your doctor.
By taking a proactive approach and working closely with your doctor, you can effectively manage high blood calcium levels and improve your health and well-being.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so it’s important to prioritize your health and wellness by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and seeking medical advice when needed.
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