Consequences of Too Much Calcium

In many cases, hypercalcaemia, or too much calcium in the body, can be hard to detect. Doctors sometimes may attribute the symptoms of hypercalcaemia to other diseases or illnesses and that can be dangerous. It is important to regulate your intake of calcium based on the fact that your body needs a certain amount of calcium to perform correctly and stay strong.
  1. The Cause

    • Hyperthyroidism does not allow the body to process calcium correctly and therefore is responsible for 90 percent of hypercalcaemia cases. Endocrine disorders such as Addison's disease, cancer and myeloma also can cause the body to block calcium from functioning correctly in the body. If you have any of these conditions, you need a doctor to help you plan for proper calcium intake.

    Symptoms

    • Be aware of symptoms, including dehydration, frequent urination, constipation, confusion, fatigue and vomiting. These are the common issues that present when a body suffers from hypercalcaemia. You need to drink plenty of fluids and to contact a doctor when these symptoms arise. Nausea can cause vomiting and that vomiting can cause a body to be dehydrated.

    Major Warnings

    • Hypercalcaemia can have serious consequences, including seizures, kidney failure, coma and even death in some cases. Someone with hypercalcaemia suffers spasms and seizures that can last for days after calcium levels return to normal. This is especially common in the elderly. The main reason to contact a doctor if you think that you have consumed too much calcium is that only a doctor can diagnose certain conditions. Some of these include high blood pressure, heart arrhythmias and kidney stones.

    Know the Facts

    • Educate yourself about your calcium intake and understand the basics. Calcium is known for its ability to strengthen teeth and bones, but you may experience bone pain if too much calcium is present in your body. Talk to your doctor and confirm that you are taking the proper dose. That can help you to avoid long-term conditions such as pain throughout the musculoskeletal system and problems with the nervous system.

Nutritional Supplements - Related Articles