The most common cause of hypercalcemia is overactivity in the four tiny glands in the neck (parathyroid glands) or from cancer.
Extra calcium in the blood affects many body systems.
Hypercalcemia can cause kidney problems, such as kidney stones and kidney failure.
Other complications of hypercalcemia include irregular heartbeats and osteoporosis.
Hypercalcemia can also cause confusion or dementia since calcium helps keep your nervous system functioning properly.
Hypercalcemia is a condition in which the calcium level in your blood is above normal.
Too much calcium in your blood can weaken your bones, create kidney stones, and interfere with how your heart and brain work.
Hypercalcemia is usually a result of overactive parathyroid glands.
Common treatments for hypercalcemia include.
Calcitonin (Miacalcin). This hormone from salmon controls calcium levels in the blood.
Calcimimetics. This type of drug can help control overactive parathyroid glands.
Bisphosphonates.
Denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva).
Prednisone.
IV fluids and diuretics.
Treatment for hypercalcemia is aimed at the cause of hypercalcemia whenever possible.
People with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) may need surgery to remove the abnormal parathyroid gland.
This will cure the hypercalcemia.
People with mild hypercalcemia may be able to monitor the condition closely over time without treatment.
Your cancer or the treatment you get for it can share symptoms with hypercalcemia, such as feeling sick or throwing up.
If you get dehydrated, your kidneys can't get rid of calcium very well.
Your doctor may give you fluids through your vein. Hypercalcemia from cancer can be hard to manage.
People with mild hypercalcemia may not require treatment, and calcium levels may return to normal over time.
The doctor will monitor these levels and the health of the kidneys.
If calcium levels continue to rise or do not improve on their own, doctors may recommend further testing.