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Calcium is essential for muscle function, nerve health, and bone strength. Abnormal levels can indicate parathyroid issues, vitamin D deficiency, or kidney problems. Managing calcium levels is crucial for overall health and preventing complications.
Calcium is a vital electrolyte and mineral that plays a crucial role in the body's overall functioning. It is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, but its role extends far beyond that.
Calcium is involved in muscle contractions, nerve function, blood clotting, and the release of certain hormones. It also helps regulate other minerals, like phosphorus and magnesium, to keep the body in balance.
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Calcium testing is typically included in metabolic panels but can also be ordered individually if specific symptoms or conditions are present. A doctor may recommend a calcium test in the following situations:
Calcium testing is most commonly conducted through a blood test, specifically using a venous blood sample.
It is often included as part of larger panels such as the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) or the Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP), which provide a broader view of electrolyte and mineral balance in the body. Sometimes, doctors may order a specific "serum calcium test" to focus on calcium levels alone.
Special preparations, such as avoiding certain supplements or medications before the test, may be required based on your doctor's advice to ensure the most accurate results.
The reference ranges can vary depending on age, but generally, the following ranges are considered normal for blood tests:
Normal Urine Calcium Ranges:
For individuals on a normal calcium diet, the expected calcium level in a 24-hour urine test is typically between 100 to 300 milligrams per day (mg/day), or 2.50 to 7.50 millimoles per 24 hours (mmol/24 hours).
For those on a low-calcium diet, the normal range is lower, generally 50 to 150 mg/day or 1.25 to 3.75 mmol/24 hours. These ranges help healthcare providers interpret results within the context of dietary intake, ensuring an accurate assessment of calcium metabolism.
Note: The units of measurement and the normal ranges can differ depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used.
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Abnormal calcium levels can indicate various underlying health conditions, making it important to understand what might cause these deviations. Calcium levels can be either higher or lower than the normal range, each pointing to different potential issues.
Elevated calcium levels, known as hypercalcemia, may suggest underlying health conditions or imbalances in the body. Common causes of high calcium levels include:
Low calcium levels, known as hypocalcemia, can also point to various health concerns. It is essential to identify the underlying causes for proper treatment. Common causes include:
If your calcium levels are abnormal, it's important to seek advice from a healthcare professional who can guide further testing and management. You may need to consult:
This article was written by doctors from the Docus Medical Research team and reviewed by leading endocrinology and nephrology experts. We relied on academic studies, medical research, and publications from credible sources to ensure the information provided is accurate and trustworthy.
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