Side Effects of High Blood Calcium Levels
Bethany Fong, R.D.
Bethany
Fong is a registered dietitian and chef from Honolulu. She has produced a
variety of health education materials and worked in wellness industries such as
clinical dietetics, food service management and public health.
Calcium
is an essential mineral that supports bone formation, muscle contractions,
release of hormones, and brain and nerve function. High blood calcium, also
called hypercalcemia, can be caused by an overactive parathyroid gland, a gland
that regulates blood calcium, which in severe cases may be removed. Other
causes of high blood calcium include existing medical disorders, certain
cancers and tumors, medications, and excessive use of vitamin D and calcium
supplements. Hypercalcemia can affect many parts of the body. Treatment
involves administering intravenous fluids and medications like calcitonin and
bisphosphonates.
Abdominal Side Effects
High blood calcium can cause
1. nausea,
2. vomiting,
3. constipation and
4. abdominal pain.
5. Individuals may also experience a loss
of appetite.
Kidney Side Effects
The kidneys excrete water when blood
calcium is high which can lead to dehydration, according to Merck Manuals.
As a result individuals with
hypercalcemia often experience increased thirst and frequent urination.
Other side effects include flank pain
and kidney stones.
Muscular and Skeletal Side
Effects
High blood calcium can lead to
1. muscle atrophy,
2. twitching,
3. weakness and
4. pain.
In some cases hypercalcemia results from
breakdown of bone and subsequent release of calcium into the blood stream. This
can lead to bone pain, bowing of the shoulders, an increased risk of fractures,
and curvature of the spine and height loss.
Psychological Side Effects
Psychological side effects of high blood
calcium include
1. confusion,
2. lethargy,
3. fatigue,
4. apathy,
5. dementia,
6. depression,
7. irritability and
8. memory loss.
In
severe cases coma and death can ensue.
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