Learning that you have hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels in the blood, can be confusing. After all, we’re constantly reminded that calcium is essential for strong bones and healthy aging. Maybe you’ve even been encouraged to take supplements. So how can you now have too much calcium?
Hypercalcemia isn’t about how much calcium you’re consuming — it’s about how your body is managing it. When your body’s calcium regulation becomes unbalanced, this essential mineral can build up in your bloodstream, potentially causing several severe problems.
Unfortunately, hypercalcemia signs and symptoms can be subtle at first and are easy to overlook. Some providers may downplay slightly elevated calcium levels or miss their connection to patient concerns, such as fatigue or brain fog. That’s why it’s critical to recognize hypercalcemia symptoms and take them seriously
What Is Hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia is a potentially dangerous disorder in which calcium levels in the blood are too high. While calcium is essential for healthy bones, nerves, and muscles, it needs to stay within a narrow range. When this balance is disrupted, calcium can interfere with how cells, nerves, and organs function.
Mild hypercalcemia may cause no symptoms, but higher levels can lead to severe health problems over time. The condition is highly treatable, but understanding the cause of your hypercalcemia is key to determining the right treatment and preventing long-term complications.
Common Hypercalcemia Causes
Hypercalcemia can develop for several reasons, but the most common cause is primary hyperparathyroidism, which occurs when one or more parathyroid glands release too much parathyroid hormone (PTH), driving up calcium levels in the blood.
Other possible hypercalcemia causes include:
- Cancer, especially breast, lung, or blood cancers
- Excess vitamin D, which can increase calcium absorption
- Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) — a rare genetic condition that mimics primary hyperparathyroidism but usually doesn’t require treatment
- Certain medications, including lithium and thiazide diuretics
- Severe dehydration, which can concentrate calcium in the bloodstream
Understanding the underlying cause of your hypercalcemia is the first step toward choosing the right treatment and protecting your long-term health.
8 Common Hypercalcemia Symptoms
Because calcium affects many body systems, hypercalcemia symptoms can show up in different ways. In most cases, the condition develops gradually, and the resulting signs often resemble hyperparathyroid symptoms, as hyperparathyroidism is the most common cause of elevated calcium levels. Some people notice just one or two effects, while others experience several.
Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
Hypercalcemia can disrupt muscle and nerve function, leaving you feeling sluggish, tired, or weak — even without obvious exertion.
Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
Excess calcium can cause polyuria — excessive urination that makes your kidneys work harder and may lead to dehydration and persistent thirst.
Digestive Problems
Hypercalcemia can interfere with digestion, causing symptoms such as nausea, constipation, and loss of appetite.
Bone Pain and Fragility
High calcium in the blood may result from calcium being pulled from the bones, which weakens them and can lead to aches or fractures.
Mental Confusion or Brain Fog
Hypercalcemia affects the nervous system and brain function, leading to confusion, forgetfulness, or difficulty concentrating.
Irregular Heartbeat
When calcium levels rise too high, they can affect how your heart contracts — sometimes causing palpitations or dangerous arrhythmias.
Muscle Cramps and Joint Pain
Too much calcium can irritate nerves and muscles, leading to cramps, stiffness, or joint pain.
Itching and Skin Issues
Hypercalcemia can occasionally lead to calcinosis cutis — calcium deposits in the skin that may cause itching, irritation, or visible bumps.
How Hypercalcemia Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing hypercalcemia usually starts with a standard blood panel. If calcium levels are high, your doctor may order additional labwork, including:
- Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and Calcium to check for parathyroid disease
- Vitamin D and albumin levels to assess underlying causes
- Kidney function, phosphorus, and magnesium levels for context
- 24-hour urine calcium to differentiate primary hyperparathyroidism from inherited conditions
In many cases, parathyroid imaging is used to identify overactive glands. X-rays or bone scans may be ordered to assess potential bone loss.
Treatment Options for Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia is highly treatable. The specific approach depends on the underlying cause and severity. Mild cases with minimal symptoms may only require monitoring.
Hypercalcemia treatments may include:
- Hydration and medications to flush excess calcium and protect bones or kidneys
- Addressing the root cause, such as reducing excess vitamin D or adjusting medications
- Surgery to remove overactive parathyroid glands — often the most effective option for primary hyperparathyroidism
Prompt hypercalcemia treatment helps prevent long-term damage to bones, kidneys, and other organs.
Seek Expert Hypercalcemia Treatment
If you’ve been told your symptoms or high calcium test results “aren’t a big deal,” it’s time for real answers. At the Center for Advanced Parathyroid Surgery, Dr. Babak Larian provides expert hypercalcemia diagnosis and personalized care. Contact us or schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward lasting relief.
