High calcium in the blood or hypercalcemia is not at all normal. This means that the bloodstream has too much calcium. The body’s calcium found in the bones and teeth comprises ninety-nine percent normally, and only one-percent is supposed to be in the blood. Being diagnosed with high calcium in one’s blood test needs to be treated and not ignored.
Generally, about ninety-seven percent of all cases of high calcium are caused by hyperparathyroidism and parathyroid disease. Although some cases show cancer being the cause of high calcium, these are not very widespread. It is exceptionally rare for high calcium to be due to cancer.
High calcium in a lot of people have a parathyroid problem, it is caused by an overactive parathyroid gland. The quantity of calcium in the blood is controlled by the parathyroid glands, and if one of these glands doesn’t function properly results in calcium going high. Normally, half of the blood calcium joins proteins while the other half flows freely called ‘ionized calcium’.
High levels of calcium in the blood cause the slowing down of one’s nervous system. It also causes the muscles to weaken, slow down digestion, constipated bowels, kidneys creating stones, and the bones become delicate and perhaps weak.
High calcium in the blood has a different effect on everyone. Some have warning signs, others have none. High blood calcium generally occurs slowly in days or even weeks. Signs of high calcium would include weak muscles; having a hard time getting out and in a chair or tub; feeling tired, sleepy, fatigued, and worn out; the feeling of legs being heavy, paralysis; abdominal pain; lack of desire for food; vomiting and nausea; constipation; weight loss; dehydration; increased urination; ache deep in the bones; severe thirst; headaches; lower back and sides pain; irregular heartbeats; memory loss; vision changes; unusual behavior, confusion; blood pressure increase; change in personality; and reduced attention span, loss in work interest.
One or more of the signs can be present in high blood calcium conditions. If these symptoms are experienced, it is important to see a doctor to determine and be diagnosed if the problem is severe.
Some things one can do to prevent high blood calcium would include changing positions in bed as frequently as possible, walking, drinking three to four quarts of fluids daily, and drinking a glass of prune or cranberry juice two times a day.