High blood calcium levels can lead to serious problems, including bone, brain, and heart issues.If your count is high, you should avoid antacids and supplements that contain calcium, limit calcium-rich foods in your diet, and drink more water.High levels of calcium are related to the parathyroid glands.Most people successfully manage hypercalcemia and parathyroid issues with lifestyle changes, medication and surgery.
Step 1: Take supplements and antacids that have calcium.
Your doctor will likely tell you to limit the amount of calcium you consume if your blood calcium levels are high.The first thing to do is stop taking supplements, antacids, or other over-the-counter products that contain calcium.If you take a daily multivitamin, make sure it doesn't contain calcium.If you have an upset stomach, take a medication that doesn't have calcium in it.Some products contain added calcium, so be sure to check the ingredients.
Step 2: You should drink at least 8 to 10 cups of fluids a day.
You can increase the amount of water you drink by avoiding beverages that contain calcium.A good general recommendation is to drink 8 to 10 cups of fluids per day.Make sure you stay hydrated by checking your urine.It should be light.You need to drink more fluids if it is dark yellow.As thirst indicates that you're already in the first stages of dehydration, never wait to drink until you are thirsty.
Step 3: If your doctor tells you to eat less calcium-rich food, you should.
In the short term, you may need to limit calcium in your diet.Milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium so limit or avoid them if your doctor tells you to.leafy greens, calcium-fortified cereals and non-dairy milks are other sources of calcium.If you want to make changes to your diet, make sure to check with your doctor.
Step 4: It is possible to exercise.
Hypercalcemia can be associated with low activity levels.Try to get at least 30 minutes of low to moderate intensity exercise per day.Walking briskly, climbing stairs, and bike riding are good ways to be active.If you have a medical condition, you should check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.If you have a medical issue that restricts your mobility, ask your healthcare provider for tips about staying active.
Step 5: Discuss your diet, family history and symptoms with your doctor.
Regular blood tests can detect high calcium levels.Talk to your doctor about your diet and supplements if your test results are abnormal.If anyone in your family has a history of cancer or hypercalcemia, please let them know.
Step 6: You can get calcium blood and urine tests from your doctor.
A basic metabolic panel is where calcium levels are typically tested.If your initial test results were abnormal, your doctor may order a calcium blood test, as well as a urine test to confirm the results.Since it is related to calcium absorption, your doctor may order a blood test.There is no need to be nervous because these tests are painless.They are the same as the blood and urine tests you would get at a check-up.
Step 7: There is a blood test for the parathyroid hormone.
Your doctor will most likely order a PTH test if you have high calcium levels.There is no need to prepare in advance for the test, which involves taking a blood sample.The parathyroid glands are located in the neck and help regulate the levels of vitamins and minerals.Hyperparathyroidism is the most common cause of chronic hypercalcemia.
Step 8: If your doctor recommends it, go ahead and have the tests.
If your PTH count is high, your doctor may order a specialized test to see if any of the 4 parathyroid glands are enlarged.If your PTH count is low, they may order tests to look for cancer, such as lung and breast cancer.It is uncommon for high calcium levels to be related to cancer.You should be able to manage the condition with lifestyle changes and medication if your levels are high.
Step 9: If you have acute symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
The brain, heart, and kidneys can be hurt by high calcium levels.IV fluids and diuretics are medications that increase urination.If you have elevated calcium in your blood, you may need to have it removed from your body.Hypercalcemia can be caused by an underlying medical condition or by consuming too many calcium supplements or antacids.Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and confusion.You should see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis if you have these symptoms.
Step 10: If your condition is mild, you should see your doctor for regular check-ups.
Managing chronic hypercalcemia requires lifestyle changes and monitoring blood calcium levels.If you don't experience symptoms and your levels are only slightly elevated, your doctor will probably recommend regular blood work.Your doctor will tell you how often you need to have your calcium levels tested.You might need to schedule check-ups every 3-6 months.
Step 11: Calcium levels can be controlled with a prescription medication.
Short or long-term medication may be needed for moderate or severe hypercalcemia.The right medication is dependent on your symptoms and condition.It's important to take any medication as prescribed.If you want to prevent bone loss, your doctor may prescribe calcitonin.You can spray it in your left and right nostrils.There may be side effects.If you have a high PTH count, your doctor may prescribe a drug called cinacalcet, which is taken once a day with food.Side effects may include weakness, dizziness, and upset stomach.If you have hypercalcemia, your specialist may prescribe a drug.Monthly IV drips and tablets are available for these medications.nausea, heartburn, and flu-like symptoms are possible side effects.
Step 12: If you need to switch your medicines, do so.
If you take a blood pressure medication, your doctor will switch you to a non-thiazide alternative.Tell your doctor if you take over-the-counter or prescription drugs because they can lead to hypercalcemia.
Step 13: There are serious symptoms of hyperparathyroidism that can be treated with surgery.
The operation is usually minimally intrusive, and only one of the 4 parathyroid glands is affected.Patients can go home the same day of surgery if they stay overnight.You should stick to liquid and semi-solid foods while you have a sore throat.Patients take prescription pain medication for 2 to 3 days after the operation.Depending on the extent of the surgery, you should be able to resume normal activities within a week.