High blood calcium levels, or hypercalcemia, can lead to serious complications, including bone, kidney, brain, and heart issues. If your level is high, your provider may ask you to avoid antacids and supplements that contain calcium, limit calcium-rich foods in your diet, and drink more water. Typically, high calcium levels are related to overactive parathyroid glands. Fortunately, most people successfully manage hypercalcemia and parathyroid issues with lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, surgery. [1] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
Steps
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Avoid taking supplements and antacids that contain calcium. If your blood calcium levels are high, your doctor will likely instruct you to limit the amount of calcium you consume. The first step is to stop taking any supplements, antacids, or other over-the-counter products that contain calcium. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- If you take a daily multivitamin, ask your doctor to recommend one that doesn’t contain calcium. [3] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Look for antacids that have magnesium instead, and ask your healthcare provider what medicines and herbs are safe for you to take. [4] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- If you have an upset stomach, take a medication that doesn’t contain calcium, such as bismuth subsalicylate (better known as brand names like Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate). Just be sure to check the ingredients, as some bismuth subsalicylate products contain added calcium. [5] X Research source
- Check prescription medications you’re taking as well. Studies show that thiazide diuretics for blood pressure could increase your calcium levels. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Lithium carbonate therapy may also increase your calcium levels. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Warning: Even if you’re in perfect health, taking too many calcium supplements or antacids can cause serious medical issues. Always use any supplement or medication as directed. [8] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
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Drink at least 2 to 2.5 litres (8.5 to 10.6 c) of fluids per day to prevent kidney stones. Most kidney stones form from built-up calcium in your body. [9] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Drinking 2 to 2.5 litres (8.5 to 10.6 c) of water and other fluids can reduce your risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones, but follow your healthcare provider’s specific advice. [10] X Trustworthy Source Michigan Medicine The University of Michigan's medical center, which provides patient care, supports research, and educates the public on health topics Go to source
- Check your urine to make sure you’re staying hydrated. It should be light yellow to clear in color. If it’s dark yellow, you need to drink more fluids. [11] X Research source
- Do not wait to drink until you’re thirsty, as thirst indicates that you’re already in the first stages of dehydration. [12] X Research source
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Eat fewer calcium-rich foods if your doctor advises. You may need to limit calcium in your diet or avoid it altogether, at least in the short term. Dairy products are rich in calcium so, with your doctor’s guidance, limit or avoid items such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. [13] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- Your doctor may recommend limiting your calcium intake to less than 1,000 mg per day. [14] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
- Other sources of calcium include leafy greens, calcium-fortified cereals, and non-dairy milks. [15] X Trustworthy Source Health.gov Online collection of health and fitness standards set by the U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Go to source For most people, calcium is an important part of a healthy diet, so check with your doctor before making dietary changes. [16] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
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Exercise for 30 minutes a day or as much as possible. Sometimes, hypercalcemia is caused by being bedridden or immobilized for a prolonged period of time. [17] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source If you’re able to, try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day. Good ways to keep active include walking briskly, climbing stairs, and bike riding. [18] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine if you’re not used to physical activity or have a chronic or unstable medical condition. [19] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source
- If you have a medical issue that restricts your mobility, ask your healthcare provider for tips about staying active despite your condition. [20] X Research source
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Tell your doctor about your diet, family history, and symptoms. Hypercalcemia, or higher-than-normal calcium levels, are usually diagnosed through routine blood tests. [21] X Research source If your test results are abnormal, talk to your doctor about your diet and any supplements or medications you take. Let them know if you’ve experienced any unusual symptoms and if anyone in your family has a history of hypercalcemia, parathyroid issues, kidney stones, or cancer. [22] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
Symptoms of Hypercalcemia: While most people don’t experience symptoms, signs of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, muscle weakness, bone pain, fragile bones, fatigue, and confusion. [23] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
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Ask your doctor for calcium blood and urine tests. Calcium levels are typically tested during a routine blood test called a basic metabolic panel. If your initial test results were abnormal, your doctor may order another calcium blood test, as well as a urine test, to confirm the results. [24] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Since it’s related to calcium absorption, your doctor may also order a vitamin D blood test. [25] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- These tests are non-invasive, so there’s no need to be nervous. They’re no different than the blood and urine tests you’d receive at a routine check-up.
Robert Thompson, EndocrinologistFor chronic hypercalcemia, addressing the root cause is essential yet complex, often requiring repeat testing and trial-and-error with medications. Quick fixes like aggressive IV fluids can help acute spikes but worsen long-term calcium metabolism. Have patience, stick to the game plan, and communicate openly with your care team. With diligence to find the perfect treatment regimen, even stubborn high calcium levels can normalize.
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Get a parathyroid hormone (PTH) blood test. If your calcium levels are high, your doctor may order a PTH test to check your parathyroid function. [26] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source The test simply involves taking a blood sample and, usually, there’s no need to fast or otherwise prepare in advance. [27] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- The parathyroid glands are tiny, located in the neck, and help regulate vitamin and mineral levels in the blood. About 90% of chronic hypercalcemia cases are caused by hyperparathyroidism, or overactive parathyroid glands. [28] X Research source
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Undergo imaging tests as recommended by your doctor. If your PTH count is high, your doctor may order a specialized imaging test to see if any of the 4 parathyroid glands are enlarged. [29] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Alternatively, if your PTH count is normal or low, they may order tests to look for certain cancers, such as lung and breast cancer. [30] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- About 2% of all cancers are related to high calcium levels, so try not to worry. [31] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source If your levels are high, you're likely able to manage the condition with lifestyle changes, routine check-ups, and medication.
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Seek immediate medical attention if you have severe, acute symptoms. Excessively high calcium levels can hurt the kidneys, brain, and heart. [32] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Treatment for acute hypercalcemia typically includes IV (intravenous) fluids and diuretics, which are medications that increase urination. [33] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source You may also need dialysis if elevated calcium in your blood has caused kidney failure. [34] X Research source
- Hypercalcemia may be caused by an underlying medical condition or by consuming too many calcium supplements or antacids. [35] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, poor balance, and confusion. These symptoms can be associated with a variety of medical issues, so see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. [36] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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See your doctor for routine check-ups if your condition is mild. For many people, managing chronic hypercalcemia involves making lifestyle changes and monitoring blood calcium levels. If your levels are only slightly elevated and you don’t experience symptoms, your doctor will probably just recommend regular blood work. [37] X Research source
- Your doctor will let you know how often you need to get your calcium levels tested. [38] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Take a prescription medication that controls calcium levels as directed. For moderate or severe hypercalcemia, you may need to take short or long-term medication. The right medication depends on your specific symptoms and condition. Be sure to take any medication exactly as prescribed. [39] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- To manage calcium levels and prevent bone loss, your doctor may prescribe calcitonin. [40] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Spray in 1 nostril daily, and alternate spraying it in your left and right nostrils. Side effects may include nausea, runny nose, and nosebleeds. [41] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- If your PTH count is high, your doctor may prescribe a calcimimetic, such as cinacalcet. [42] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source It's typically taken with food once a day around the same time every day. Side effects may include upset stomach, dizziness, and weakness. [43] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- If you have hypercalcemia related to cancer, your specialist may prescribe a bisphosphonate. These medications are available as tablets or monthly IV drips. Side effects may include nausea, heartburn, and flu-like symptoms. [44] X Trustworthy Source Cancer Research UK U.K.-based cancer research and advocacy charity Go to source
- Your doctor may also use IV fluids for hydration and volume expansion. [45] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Switch your diuretic or blood pressure medicines, if necessary. If you take a thiazide diuretic or blood pressure medication, your doctor will switch you to a non-thiazide alternative. Other medications, such as lithium, can also lead to hypercalcemia, so tell your doctor about any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you take. [46] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
Warning: Don’t stop taking a prescription medication without first consulting your prescriber.
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Treat serious symptoms related to hyperparathyroidism with surgery. Usually, only 1 of the 4 parathyroid glands is affected, and the operation is typically minimally invasive. While you may stay overnight, many patients are able to go home the same day of surgery. [47] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- You’ll have a sore throat for a few days and should stick to liquid and semi-solid foods. Most patients take prescription pain medication for 2 to 3 days after the operation. [48] X Research source
- Depending on the extent of surgery, you should be able to resume normal activities in less than a week. [49] X Research source
- You’ll usually be recommended surgery if you have calcium higher than the upper normal limit greater than 1 mg/dl, osteoporosis, vertebral fracture, chronic kidney disease, high urinary calcium, kidney stones, or if you’re over 50 years old. [50] X Research source
List of Foods to Eat and Avoid and Meal Plan to Help Lower Calcium in Blood
Expert Q&A
Tips
- To stay on the safe side, ask your doctor for advice before taking any supplement or over-the-counter medication, especially if you have any medical conditions. [51] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to sourceThanks
- Calcium is vital for teeth and bone health, so you shouldn’t stop consuming it altogether without consulting a doctor. [52] X Research sourceThanks
- If you're using tobacco, take steps to quit smoking . It can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to a variety of medical issues. [53] X Trustworthy Source American Heart Association Leading nonprofit that funds medical research and public education Go to sourceThanks
Warnings
- Always use any over-the-counter or prescription medication as directed. Never take more calcium antacids or supplements than the instruction label recommends.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000044.htm
- ↑ https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=d04e42bf-2748-f12b-e053-2a95a90a35e5&type=display
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532918/
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3083797/
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2014540/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/symptoms-causes/syc-20355755
- ↑ https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/urology/FluidIntakeGuidelines.pdf
- ↑ https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/kidneystones
- ↑ https://www.bcm.edu/news/thirsty-you-are-already-dehydrated
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000044.htm
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK56058/
- ↑ https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/nutrition/calcium-shopping-list
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002412.htm
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/exercise/faq-20057916
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/do-you-need-to-see-a-doctor-before-starting-your-exercise-program
- ↑ https://healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/how-to-exercise-with-limited-mobility/
- ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia#symptoms-and-causes
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000365.htm
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003690.htm
- ↑ https://www.uclahealth.org/endocrine-center/high-calcium
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/parathyroid-hormone-pth-test/
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypercalcemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355523
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-Consumer/
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22021-calcium-blood-test
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430714/
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601031.html
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430714/
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605004.html
- ↑ https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/physically/blood-calcium/managing-high-calcium
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14597-hypercalcemia
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001215.htm
- ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/surgery/parathyroid-surgery/what-to-expect-at-penn
- ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/surgery/parathyroid-surgery/what-to-expect-at-penn
- ↑ https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/ask-the-doctors-when-does-a-person-need-parathyroid-surgery
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000044.htm
- ↑ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/#h8
- ↑ https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/quit-smoking-tobacco