Calcium is an essential mineral that is critical for bone health, muscle contraction and hormone release as well as heart, nerve and brain function. However, excessively high levels of calcium may have detrimental effects on all of these physiological processes. An overdose of calcium may result from excessive use of calcium and vitamin D supplements. It may also be caused by medications, overactive parathyroid glands or other medical conditions.
Overdose Causes
Vitamin pills, antacid medications used for stomach indigestion and certain hand lotions all contain calcium. An accidental overdose of calcium may occur if these are ingested in amounts exceeding the recommended doses. Keep these substances stored out of the reach of children and follow the dosing instructions carefully. Call your local emergency or poison control hotline if you suspect an acute overdose of calcium and seek medical attention.
Immediate Effects
Symptoms of calcium overdose may vary depending on the amount and type ingested. Signs may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, constipation, nausea and vomiting. Because the heart may be affected, arrhythmias and rapid heart rate may develop. Muscle twitching, bone pain, mental confusion and coma are other possible signs of an acute overdose.
Long-Term Effects
Long-term overuse of vitamins and antacids, as well as certain health conditions, may lead to chronic hypercalcemia or elevated calcium levels in the blood. Left untreated, this condition may have serious health consequences. The release of calcium into the blood from the bones may lead to osteoporosis. High levels of calcium in the urine may produce kidney stones and, over time, hypercalcemia may lead to kidney failure. Arrhythmias, mental confusion, dementia and coma are other severe and life-threatening effects of calcium overdose.
Treatment
The treatment for severe hypercalcemia focuses on restoring blood levels of calcium to the normal range. You may be given intravenous fluids to promote hydration. Loop diuretic medications preserve kidney function to remove excess calcium from the body. Bisphosphonate drugs and calcitonin help prevent bone loss. Dialysis treatments may be necessary to remove excess waste products and calcium from the blood if your kidneys are not functioning well.
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