How to Treat Calcium Deposits

How to Treat Calcium Deposits
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Calcium deposits occur when unabsorbed calcium is deposited into the soft tissue in different areas of the body. This condition can also be referred to as calcinosis. Calcium deposits commonly appear in the shoulders, on the back and around the eyes. The calcium deposit will feel like a soft lump under the surface of the skin before hardening. If you suspect you are suffering from calcinosis, make an appointment with your doctor to go over treatment options.

Step 1

Adjust your diet. Certain deficiencies can cause calcium deposits to develop. Increase the amount of magnesium and vitamin K found in your diet. Sources of these nutrients include broccoli, collard greens, spinach and kale. You do not have to limit your dairy intake if you have calcium deposits, since no link has been found that indicates too much calcium leads to this condition.

Step 2

Use ice on the calcium deposits to relieve any pain and inflammation. Place an ice pack wrapped in a towel upon the calcium deposit for five- to 10-minute intervals throughout the day.

Step 3

Take an anti-inflammatory over the counter pain reliever. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be used to relieve the inflammation associated with calcium deposits.

Step 4

Receive a prescription for an anticoagulant medication. Anticoagulants are a group of drugs used to keep the blood from clotting. Physicians can prescribe these drugs as a way to reverse the effects of calcinosis.

Step 5

Discuss surgical options with your physician. If drug therapies are not effective, surgical excision of a calcium deposit may be considered. This is typically only considered with large masses.

References

Article reviewed by MER Last updated on: Aug 11, 2011

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