What Are the Treatments for Hypercalcemia in Renal Failure?

Hypercalcemia is a condition characterized by excessive amounts of calcium present in the bloodstream. Successful treatment for hypercalcemia in cases of renal failure must address the underlying kidney ailment.

Initial Treatment

• In cases of severe hypercalcemia, doctors may take steps to lower blood calcium levels before addressing underlying causes, reports the Mayo Clinic. Potential treatment options include rehydration through intravenous (IV) fluids, medications to halt bone breakdown (bisphosphonates), diuretics to flush out excess calcium and use of hemodialysis to artificially filter calcium and waste from the kidneys.

Kidney Failure

• Treatments for kidney failure vary according to the ailment's underlying cause, notes the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Potential causes include clotting in kidney blood vessels, low blood pressure and decreased blood flow. infections or autoimmune kidney disease.

Treatment Goals

• After diagnosing a cause, doctors aim to restore proper function and prevent further damage while the kidneys heal, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Treatment Options

• The U.S. National Library of Medicine cites kidney failure treatment options that include liquid and food restrictions, antibiotics for infection and use of diuretics to encourage loss of excess fluids.

Additional Options

• Additional treatment options include dialysis or IV doses of calcium, glucose or potassium to combat potassium buildup, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine.