What Is Hypercalcemia?

Hypercalcemia is a condition where there is too much calcium in the blood. Calcium is essential for bone strength, muscle function, and nerve signaling, but too much can disrupt normal body processes and cause serious health problems if left untreated.

What Causes Hypercalcemia?

Common causes include:

• Overactive parathyroid glands (primary hyperparathyroidism)
• Cancer, especially lung, breast, and blood cancers
• Certain medications, like thiazide diuretics or lithium
• Vitamin D toxicity
• Prolonged bed rest or immobility, especially in people with bone diseases
• Granulomatous diseases like sarcoidosis or tuberculosis
• Genetic conditions (e.g., familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia)

What Are the Symptoms?

Mild hypercalcemia may not cause symptoms, but more significant or prolonged elevation can lead to:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Excessive thirst and frequent urination
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Abdominal pain
• Bone pain or fractures
• Kidney stones

How Is It Diagnosed?

Hypercalcemia is usually detected during routine blood tests. If high calcium levels are found, further evaluation may include:

• Serum calcium (total and ionized)
• Parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels
• Kidney function tests
• Vitamin D levels
• Imaging studies (such as neck ultrasound or bone scans)
• Urine calcium testing

What Is the Treatment?

Treatment depends on the severity and the cause:

• Mild cases may just require monitoring and hydration
• IV fluids and diuretics may be used to flush out excess calcium in more severe cases
• Bisphosphonates or calcitonin for cases related to cancer or bone breakdown
• Steroids for certain inflammatory causes
• Surgical removal of parathyroid glands if primary hyperparathyroidism is the cause
• Dialysis in severe cases or when kidney function is impaired

Are There Any Complications?

Untreated or severe hypercalcemia can lead to:

• Kidney stones
• Bone thinning (osteopenia or osteoporosis)
• Kidney failure
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Nervous system effects like confusion or coma

What Is the Outlook?

With proper treatment, most people recover fully from hypercalcemia, especially if the underlying cause is addressed. Chronic or recurrent cases may require long-term monitoring and management.

Can Hypercalcemia Be Prevented?

While not all causes can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Staying hydrated
• Avoiding excessive calcium or vitamin D supplements
• Managing chronic illnesses and following up on abnormal blood tests