High blood calcium is a condition called hypercalcemia. Calcium is involved with muscle contraction, hormone production and bone health, and high levels of calcium can be detrimental to an individual's heath. This condition is typically caused by overactive parathyroid glands, says the Mayo Clinic. Medications, cancer, overuse of calcium and vitamin D supplements and other medical conditions may also cause high blood calcium levels. To prevent serious medical problems, hypercalcemia should be treated as soon as possible.
Medications
When blood calcium is too high, medication can help bring these levels down. Loop diuretic medications like furosemide are used to help the body excrete calcium and maintain kidney functioning, according to the Mayo Clinic. Glucocorticoids may be administered to counteract excess vitamin D that results from hypercalcemia, and bisphosphonates can be given intravenously to help slow down bone breakdown from too much calcium, says the Mayo Clinic. Calcitonin, a naturally occurring hormone, is given to further reduce breakdown of bone and prevent bone loss.
Replacing Fluids and Hemodialysis
According to the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, one of the most important factors in treating hypercalcemia is replacing fluids that are lost. Fluids are typically given intravenously, and while this alone may not relieve more severe symptoms like loss of appetite or fatigue, it treats dehydration, a common effect of hypercalcemia, says the National Cancer Institute. For individuals with kidney impairment, hemodialysis may be used if other treatments are ineffective, says the Mayo Clinic. This helps remove excess calcium and other wastes in the blood.
Treatment of the Underlying Condition
When the underlying condition that causes the hypercalcemia is known, treatment is typically geared toward treating that condition. If the high blood calcium is caused by hyperparathyroidism, surgery may be necessary to remove part or all of the thyroid. Medication may be an alternative to surgery. According to the Mayo Clinic, the drug cinacalcet helps lower blood calcium levels because it reduces the parathyroid hormone production. If hypercalcemia is caused by cancer treatment, relieving symptoms of the high blood calcium levels is addressed and supportive care is usually given, says the National Cancer Institute. This may involve educating the patient about injury and fracture prevention due to the hypercalcemia and addressing any pain the patient may be experiencing.
Home Remedies and Prevention
Once diagnosed with hypercalcemia, patients can help prevent kidney damage by drinking plenty of fluids in addition to the treatments given by health care professionals, says the Mayo Clinic. Once calcium levels normalize, physical activity may be beneficial in helping to strengthen bones and prevent further bone loss. Prior to starting any physical activity routine, it is best to consult a health care professional to ensure it is appropriate.
