Hypercalcemia

Updated: 2024-03-08

Description

A condition in which the level of calcium in the blood becomes too high.

Overview

Most often, hypercalcemia happens after one or more of the parathyroid glands in the neck make too much hormone. Other causes include cancer, some other conditions, and too much use of calcium and vitamin D supplements.

Symptoms

Hypercalcemia symptoms can include extreme thirst, frequent urination and pain in the stomach area. The symptoms depend on which part of the body is affected by high levels of calcium in the blood. Hypercalcemia can affect muscles, bones, the kidneys, digestive system, heart or brain.

Treatment

With mild hypercalcemia, treatment might not be needed right away. For hypercalcemia that is more serious, medicines or treatment of the underlying disease may be recommended. Sometimes, treatment includes surgery.