Calcium is an essential component that is needed by the body for various requirements such as enzyme function, normal heart rhythm, muscle contraction and nerve conduction. Although the majority of the body’s calcium is available in the skeletal structures, it is also present in the blood. The amount of calcium needed by the cellular structure is regulated by the body by transporting it from the bones whenever required. The level of calcium in the body is normally maintained by the hormones known as parathyroid and calcitonin. An individual’ requirement of calcium intake per day is estimated around 1,000 to 1,500 milligrams per day. The disorders of calcium metabolism can result in the excess level of calcium in the body in a condition known as hypercalcemia and low level of calcium is referred to as hypocalcemia.
Hypercalcemia
This is the condition when the level of calcium in the body is above normal. An excess amount of calcium can affect the normal functions of the heart, brain and can create kidney stones. This condition commonly occurs as the result of overactive parathyroid glands which are located near the thyroid gland. Most cases may not experience any symptoms when the condition is generally mild, but symptoms may develop depending on the part of the body that becomes affected. Some of the examples of this include problems with the kidney which can create associated symptoms such as its inability to effectively filter the excess calcium from the blood causing frequent urination and thirst. Problems with the digestive system can include nausea, constipation and vomiting. This condition can interfere with the healthy function of the brain and can cause fatigue or confusion. Hypercalcemia can be caused by a number of factors such as cancer, overactive parathyroid glands, dehydration, genetic conditions such as familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia and certain medications. Hypercalcemia is usually detected during routine blood tests as only a few associated symptoms may be evident. The treatment is usually focused in treated the underlying cause such as cancer and a surgery in removing the overactive parathyroid glands.
Hypocalcemia
This develops when the calcium level in the blood is below normal and can be the result of problems with the parathyroid glands or other condition that affects the kidneys. This can also occur if an excess amount of calcium is excreted in the urine or when the body is not transporting the required calcium from the bones to the blood. Some of the additional causes can include the absence of parathyroid glands at birth, decreased level of parathyroid hormones, kidney dysfunction and certain medications. Early stages of hypocalcemia may not present any evident symptoms but prolonged low calcium level in the body can create brittle nails, coarse hair, abnormal heart rhythms and muscle cramps. When hypocalcemia affects the brain it can create confusion, delirium and hallucinations. The diagnosis is based on evaluating the kidney function, level of vitamin D and the parathyroid hormone in the body. Depending on the cause of this problem, the underlying cause may be treated or calcium supplements can restore the calcium level.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypercalcemia/basics/treatment/con-20031513
