Total Calcium
What is Ca in blood tests?
Ca Measurement
Low: Below 8.5mg/dL
High: Above 10.5mg/dL
About Total Calcium
Calcium is essential for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
The reasons for low Ca
Low calcium (hypocalcemia) is caused by vitamin D deficiency, hypoparathyroidism, kidney disease, or malabsorption disorders. It can also result from chronic low magnesium levels. To increase calcium, consuming dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, and ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels is crucial.
The reasons for elevated Ca
High calcium (hypercalcemia) is often due to hyperparathyroidism, excessive vitamin D supplementation, certain cancers, or dehydration. To lower calcium levels, increasing hydration, reducing calcium and vitamin D intake, and treating underlying conditions is important.
Is it bad too have too high/low Ca?
Hypocalcemia can cause muscle cramps, tingling, osteoporosis, and seizures. Severe deficiency can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities and weakened bones.
Hypercalcemia can cause kidney stones, fatigue, confusion, and heart rhythm disturbances. Long-term high calcium levels increase the risk of kidney damage and cardiovascular disease.