The Range of Normal Calcium Levels in the Blood
Normal Calcium Levels in the Blood, You’ve probably heard about the range of normal calcium levels in the blood. However, did you know that 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL is the sweet spot? Then read on for information on Hyperparathyroidism, Ionized calcium, Cancer, and other conditions associated with high calcium levels. You’ll be glad you read this article. It may even be the first time you’ve heard of this important nutrient.[1]
8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL
While the FDA normal range for calcium in blood is 8.6 to 10.2 mg/dL, the range for individual people may vary. However, laboratory values may vary as some use different measurement methods or test different specimens. Your doctor can help you understand the significance of your test results. Below these levels, you may be suffering from a condition called hypocalcemia. In such cases, treatment may be required.[2]
In most cases, high levels of calcium in blood are the result of an underlying condition. Several common causes include cancer and an overactive parathyroid gland. A doctor may order a calcium blood test and may order tests for other markers. Taking certain medications and a high vitamin D and A intake may also result in hypercalcemia. In addition, calcium supplements and excessive calcium intake may be associated with elevated blood levels.
A test that reveals elevated levels of calcium in the blood is called hyperparathyroidism. This disease is usually detected when an individual is at least 18 years old. Blood calcium levels in healthy teenagers are between 10.0 and 10.7 mg/dL. The same goes for older people. If you’re over 65, your calcium level should be in the nines.
If a person’s calcium level is consistently high, they may need to be monitored for hypercalcemia. A doctor should check calcium levels along with parathyroid hormone levels because these hormones are related and should be monitored together.[3] 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL is the normal level for blood calcium. The doctor may also want to check calcium levels in the patient’s urine to confirm whether there’s a problem.
Ionized calcium
The ionized form of calcium is responsible for maintaining the balance between free and ionized calcium in the blood. It is essential for the integrity and function of cells. Calcium in the blood plasma reflects the amount of calcium that is absorbed from the diet and excreted in urine. It is believed that some calcium may move from the blood to bones, sacrificing the mineralization of the bones in the process.
The concentration of ionized calcium in the blood is usually measured by using an ion-specific electrode. The pH of the sample plays a crucial role in the measurement of ionized calcium because calcium ions compete with hydrogen ions for binding sites in negatively charged proteins and anions. Consequently, increasing the pH level increases the concentration of circulating free calcium. Insufficient blood volume or underfilled tubes may cause an erroneous low level of ionized calcium, thus causing higher levels of protein-bound calcium.[4]
Although the ionized form of calcium may not be completely predictive, it is often helpful in predicting patient outcomes. Low ionized calcium concentrations are associated with a higher risk of early and in-hospital mortality. However, the predictive value of low ionized calcium levels is still debated. As a result, it is prudent to monitor ionized calcium levels in patients who are unconscious or undergoing invasive surgery. If the calcium level falls below 2.8 mg/dL, a high risk of cardiac arrest is associated.
To perform ionized calcium tests, you must fast for at least six hours prior to the test. You must refrain from drinking anything other than water, and you should discontinue any medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. Your healthcare professional will draw blood from you via venipuncture. This process involves cleaning the skin of your arm or hand and inserting a needle through it. The resulting sample is then collected into a test tube.
Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism can lead to significant complications if left untreated. The early symptoms of hyperparathyroidism are generally subtle and nonexistent, but can range from slightly elevated calcium levels to depression, constipation, and kidney stones. Hyperparathyroidism is life-threatening if left untreated. However, early symptoms can be reversible, and can lead to further complications if left untreated.
While adenomas form in one parathyroid gland, there are several types of primary hyperparathyroidism. Single-sided adenomas account for approximately 12% of cases of hyperparathyroidism, while multiple-sided adenomas make up about two percent of cases. In most cases, patients with primary hyperparathyroidism experience one or more of the following.[5]
In some cases, the condition is mild and may not require treatment. However, your healthcare provider may perform regular blood tests to monitor calcium levels and your kidney function, as well as bone density every one to three years. Your healthcare provider may recommend regular physical activity and avoid medications, such as thiazide diuretics and lithium. Vitamin D levels are also important, so your healthcare provider may recommend a vitamin D supplement if you’re lacking it.
In addition to calcium level in the blood, a physician may also perform a urine test to compare with blood samples taken from patients without skeletal issues. Calcium level in the blood can be used to diagnose hyperparathyroidism. The levels in urine should be at least 400 mg/24 hours. If your doctor finds that your calcium level is higher than this, he or she should perform a parathyroid operation.
While it’s important to monitor calcium levels regularly, the disease often progresses slowly, with only a small minority of patients reaching hypercalcemia by the age of 65. The normal calcium level for a healthy teenager is above 10 mg/dl. However, for patients 60 years of age and older, calcium levels should be in the nines or lower. This is because the disease progresses slowly and there may be other causes, like low-grade infection.[6]
Cancer
The highest level of calcium in the blood is a potential warning sign of an upcoming cancer. High calcium levels can affect the muscles and cause cramps, weakness, and confusion. In some rare cases, elevated calcium levels can cause coma or a weakened heart. If you notice elevated calcium levels in the blood, contact your doctor immediately. High calcium levels may also be a symptom of cancer. The parathyroid hormone helps control calcium levels in the body. This hormone increases or decreases calcium intake.
In addition to the skeletal bones, calcium is required by all cells in the body. Calcium is found in the blood in the form of free ionized calcium and bound calcium. While most of the bound calcium is attached to albumin, the remaining calcium is bound to other proteins and small anions. A blood test to check calcium levels can measure both forms of calcium, although the results may differ. A low total serum calcium level may indicate hypoalbuminemia. It’s better to take the ionized calcium level, as it reflects the bioavailable calcium in the blood. The pH of the blood affects the levels of free calcium, which helps regulate the amount of calcium bound to extracellular proteins.[7]
People with high levels of calcium in the blood are at risk for advanced cancer. This condition can develop even without eating a special diet. If you suspect you may have high calcium levels, seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can perform tests that can confirm the presence of hypercalcemia. Treatment will likely include treating the cancer and bringing the calcium level down to normal. The calcium levels in the blood are an early indicator of cancer.
Treatment
High levels of calcium in the blood are associated with several complications, such as bone loss, fractures, kidney stones, and hypertension. Thankfully, these complications are relatively rare today due to blood tests, which allow for prevention and treatment. Hypercalcemia is also a common side effect of several medications, and it can also be caused by more than 25 different diseases, including dehydration, primary hyperparathyroidism, and various types of cancer.
Although a normal calcium blood test does not directly measure calcium levels in the bones, it can provide a rough idea of whether a person has the condition. Other tests, including a bone density scan, can measure the calcium and mineral content of the bones. A dexa scan will also indicate whether you have any other health issues, such as anemia or high blood pressure. In any case, you should always discuss any questions you have with a health care provider or doctor.
A normal blood calcium level is more than 10 mg per dL. An elevated level may cause muscle weakness and abdominal pain. A calcium level above 14 mg per dL is potentially life-threatening. The blood levels of calcium can also cause confusion, fatigue, and lethargy. If you suspect that you have excessive calcium levels, see a doctor as soon as possible. They will recommend the proper treatment for you.
High calcium levels in the blood usually occur as a result of an underlying disease, such as an overactive parathyroid gland. Your physician will order a blood test for calcium levels and other markers to determine the source. Other causes of high calcium levels in the blood include excessive vitamin D and certain drugs. The most common treatment for hypercalcemia is to take medication to control calcium levels.[8] Taking a calcium supplement can increase calcium levels in the blood, but it will not raise them significantly.
