Hypercalcemia is a condition where there is an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood and if ignored, it might leave you needing dialysis.
Hypercalcemia can cause a number of symptoms that affect various systems. (Rhesus Medicine/Supplied)
Radhamani, a 58-year-old retired school teacher from Bengaluru, had been active, health-conscious, and diligent about the annual medical check-up for most of her life. However, a sudden decline in her well-being left her grappling with a perplexing and potentially dangerous health condition: Hypercalcemia.
Radhamani’s journey with hypercalcemia began with seemingly innocuous symptoms that gradually escalated over time. She noticed persistent fatigue, an unexplained increase in thirst, and mild anxiety, which she had never experienced before. As her symptoms persisted, she became concerned and sought medical advice.
Upon consulting her family physician, she underwent a battery of tests, including blood tests, and some ultrasound scans.
The results painted a clear picture of her condition; one that required immediate attention and further investigation. Her blood calcium levels were significantly above the normal range.
Speaking to South First, Dr Arun Kumar N, Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician, Apollo Hospitals, Seshadripuram, explains that hypercalcemia refers to a condition where there is an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood.
Calcium plays vital roles in various physiological processes in the human body, including bone formation, muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting.
However, when its level in the bloodstream is too high, it can cause a range of symptoms and complications.
Symptoms of hypercalcemia. (South First)
Dr Arun Kumar explains that hypercalcemia symptoms can range from mild to severe, and the manifestations can be graded based on the body system involved.
Dr Arun Kumar explains that older individuals are particularly at risk. Causes of hypercalcemia in this age group include familial parathyroid disorders, non-parathyroid-induced factors, medications, and other causes.
Overconsumption of Vitamin D, calcium tablets, or medications with high calcium content can trigger non-parathyroid hypercalcemia.
“If a patient has underlying conditions like cancer, the likelihood of developing hypercalcemia increases. Conditions like tuberculosis or gastrointestinal diseases can also predispose individuals to hypercalcemia. Given these associated risks, regular screening becomes paramount,” he stresses.
Several doctors, highlighting the condition, warn about taking excess Vitamin D pills. They also recommend being watchful of any thyroid medication they are taking, which could be the reason for excess calcium in the body.
Doctors explain that primary hyperparathyroidism is the most common cause. The parathyroid glands, which are small glands located near the thyroid gland in the neck, produce parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH regulates calcium levels in the blood.
In primary hyperparathyroidism, one or more of these glands become overactive and produce too much PTH, leading to an increase in blood calcium levels.
What electrolyte abnormality causes these symptoms? #MedEd pic.twitter.com/3vyyO6rnct
— Journal of Brown Hospital Medicine (@BrownJHM) October 22, 2023
Doctors took to X to reason out other causes like cancers, especially lung cancer, breast cancer, or cancers that have spread to the bones, which can cause hypercalcemia.
The doctors also warned of Vitamin D overdose. Taking too much Vitamin D can lead to an increase in calcium absorption from the intestines, resulting in elevated blood calcium levels.
Other medication like thiazide diuretics can lead to hypercalcemia, claimed doctors on X.
When detected early, mild to moderate hypercalcemia is treatable. Hypercalcemia is often diagnosed through blood tests that measure the level of calcium.
Once identified, it’s essential to determine the underlying cause, as the treatment will vary based on the root cause.
Treatment may include increasing fluid intake, medications to lower the calcium level, treating the underlying disease or condition, and in severe cases, hospitalisation to manage and treat the elevated calcium levels.
Treatments include isotonic saline, loop diuretics and, in severe instances, dialysis. “It is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to identify symptoms and any underlying conditions contributing to hypercalcemia,” Dr Kumar adds.
However, Dr Kumar says that significant challenge remains. Patients often delay treatment because hypercalcemia does not always manifest overtly. This delay can be perilous, making education and awareness campaigns on this topic vital.
May 26, 2024
May 24, 2024
May 24, 2024
May 23, 2024
May 23, 2024
May 23, 2024
