While every human body needs calcium in order to function normally, consuming more than 2,500 mg of calcium each day may be dangerous to your health, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Health professionals with Patient UK explain that if the amount of calcium in your blood exceeds 2.8 mmol/liter due to a calcium overdose, you may be at risk of developing hypercalcemia. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the side effects of a calcium overdose.
Stomach Discomfort
If you ingest too much calcium, you may experience stomach-related side effects. You may feel nauseous, vomit or develop mild to moderate abdominal pain, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library warns. A calcium overdose may also make it difficult for you to have a normal bowel movement--a side effect referred to as constipation. In conjunction, these side effects may contribute to a decrease in your normal appetite. Prolonged episodes of appetite loss may cause unintended weight loss. Consult a doctor if you experience chronic constipation or upset stomach.
Weakness and Fatigue
Significantly elevated calcium levels can prevent your muscles from contracting normally. Poor muscle contract may cause you to experience sensations of weakness, UpToDate reports. You may find it difficult to perform normal physical activities, such as lifting a bag of groceries or climbing a flight of stairs. Consequently, you may feel more tired than unusual or have problems focusing at work or school. Severe or sudden weakness may be a sign of alternate medical problems, such as stroke, and should be reported to a medical professional immediately.
Increased Urination and Thirst
High levels of calcium in your body may be toxic to your kidneys. Your kidneys attempt to clear this mineral from your body in the form of urine, leading to increased urination. Increased fluid loss may also stimulate your thirst. If you do not consume enough fluid to account for this increase in urination, you may be at risk of becoming dehydrated. Dehydration may cause additional symptoms, including dry skin, thick saliva, dry mouth, dizziness or headache. These side effects of a calcium overdose may also be signs of diabetes. If you experience increased thirst or urination, seek care from a medical professional.
Confusion or Hallucinations
When there is too much calcium in your body, the signals generated by the nerves in your brain cannot be transmitted correctly. Brain dysfunction may result in hallucinations, confusion or delirium, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library warns. In the absence of appropriate treatment, brain function may become progressively worse over time and may lead to a coma.
Heart Rate Irregularities
Your heart muscle may not be able to contract and relax normally following a calcium overdose. If this occurs, you may develop a heart arrhythmia or irregular heart rate, Patient UK reports. Discuss any heart-related changes you experience with your physician as soon as possible.
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