Contents
Hypercalcemia is called an abnormal level of magnesium. When it occurs in the presence of cancer, it usually means bone metastases. The symptoms of hypercalcemia are usually almost imperceptible. How to prevent and treat hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia – the cause
Hypercalcemia does not appear as an independent disease. It is a condition that accompanies cancer or an overactive thyroid gland.
In the case of cancer, the disease results from the destruction of bone structures by osteoclasts, i.e. cells of the bone tissue. In other words, hypercalcemia is caused by cancer metastasis to the bones. Cancer cells can also produce a protein with similar properties to parathyroid hormone (PTH).
In a situation where the cause is hyperthyroidism, the production of an increased amount of parathyroid hormone, similarly to cancer cells. It contributes to the increase of calcium absorption in the intestines while inhibiting the proper functioning of the kidneys. This makes it difficult to remove magnesium in the urine.
Hypercalcemia – symptoms
In the case of a tumor, symptoms are difficult to visualize. These are depressive states, general weakness and fatigue, lack of appetite, and disturbed consciousness. The cancer itself makes it difficult to notice the symptoms. The patient usually experiences it hard and such conditions as general weakness or depression accompany everyday life.
Other symptoms that are mentioned are:
- polyuria
- pollakiuria,
- kidney tenement house,
- hypertension,
- tachycardia,
- heart arrhythmia,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- abdominal pain,
- constipation
- muscle weakness
- dehydration.
The normal level of calcium is 2,25 to 2,5 mmol / l. Exceeding the norm of up to 3,5 is considered moderate hypercalcemia. The level of calcium above 3,5 mmol / l is life threatening.
Hypercalcemia – treatment
The primary factor in the treatment process is determining the cause of the condition. Then, treatment of the disease causing the high calcium level is started.
In the case of a mild stage of the disease (up to 2,8 mmol / l), the patient is recommended to consume appropriate drinks and limit calcium intake to 1000 mg per day.
During more advanced states of the disease, the following are used:
- drugs that inhibit the release of calcium from bones (bisphosphonates, calcitonin),
- glucocorticosteroids, which are also used in the case of vitamin D poisoning,
- dialysis is performed in life-threatening situations.
Hypercalcemia – diet
Patients with hypercalcaemia must follow an appropriate diet. They should avoid foods that are high in calcium, such as white and yellow cheese, sesame, and white beans. You should also give up mineral water because it contains calcium.
- Thyroid hormones. What do blood results say about thyroid disease?
Hypercalcemia – prevention
People at risk of disease should have their calcium levels checked regularly. How often the attending physician decides. Another method of prophylaxis is not to exceed the daily servings of supplements and medications with vitamin D and calcium.