Elevated Calcium

Elevated calcium levels, or hypercalcemia, occur when there is too much calcium in the blood. Calcium is a vital mineral for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission, but having excessively high levels can disrupt these processes and cause serious health issues. Hypercalcemia is often a sign of an underlying condition, such as an overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism), certain cancers, or excessive vitamin D intake. At Revere Health, our team of specialists provides comprehensive evaluation and management of hypercalcemia to prevent complications and support your overall health.

What Causes Elevated Calcium Levels?
Hypercalcemia can result from various medical conditions and lifestyle factors, including:

Primary Hyperparathyroidism: The most common cause of hypercalcemia. It occurs when one or more of the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH), which increases calcium levels in the blood.
Cancer: Certain cancers, such as lung, breast, and multiple myeloma, can lead to elevated calcium levels due to bone breakdown or the production of substances that mimic PTH.
Excessive Vitamin D or Calcium Supplementation: High doses of vitamin D or calcium supplements can cause hypercalcemia.
Medications: Some medications, such as lithium or thiazide diuretics, can increase calcium levels.
Prolonged Immobility: Extended periods of immobility can lead to bone loss and increased calcium release into the blood.
Symptoms of Hypercalcemia
The severity of symptoms depends on how high the calcium levels are and how quickly they develop. Mild hypercalcemia may not produce noticeable symptoms, but more severe cases can lead to:

Bone Pain and Fragility: Excess calcium can weaken bones, making them more prone to fractures and pain.
Kidney Stones: High calcium levels increase the risk of developing painful kidney stones.
Frequent Thirst and Urination: Hypercalcemia can cause the kidneys to work harder, leading to excessive thirst and urination.
Digestive Issues: Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Neurological and Psychological Symptoms: Confusion, memory problems, depression, or irritability.
Cardiac Symptoms: Hypercalcemia can cause abnormal heart rhythms and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing hypercalcemia involves blood tests to measure calcium and PTH levels, along with additional tests to identify the underlying cause. Imaging studies, such as bone density tests, kidney ultrasounds, or scans of the parathyroid glands, may also be necessary.

Treatment for hypercalcemia depends on its severity and underlying cause:

For Mild Hypercalcemia: Monitoring and lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing calcium or vitamin D intake, staying hydrated, and increasing physical activity.
For Severe Hypercalcemia: Intravenous fluids, diuretics, or medications like bisphosphonates to lower calcium levels.
Surgery: If hypercalcemia is due to hyperparathyroidism, surgical removal of the overactive parathyroid gland(s) may be recommended.
Addressing Underlying Conditions: For hypercalcemia caused by cancer or other diseases, treating the underlying condition is key to managing calcium levels.
Why Choose Revere Health?
Revere Health offers a multidisciplinary approach to managing hypercalcemia, ensuring patients receive accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. Our endocrinologists work closely with other specialists to identify the root cause of elevated calcium levels and develop comprehensive care strategies to protect bone health, kidney function, and overall well-being.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hypercalcemia or have been diagnosed with elevated calcium levels, contact Revere Health today for a consultation. Our team is here to help you achieve optimal health through expert care and support.