If you are having health effects from low calcium levels in your blood, you may need to take a calcium supplement. Calcium is an essential mineral for bone, heart, muscle and nerve health. Deficiencies can result in osteoporosis, abnormal nerve function, muscle weakness and abnormal heart beats. Supplements may return your calcium levels to normal, but may be associated with digestive problems.
Nausea and Vomiting
Some people may not tolerate taking a calcium supplement. According to Drugs.com, a common side effect of taking a calcium supplement is nausea and vomiting. This occurs because your digestive tract may react negatively to additional calcium supplementation, which results in a feeling of queasiness or vomiting. In this case, stop taking the calcium supplement and notify your doctor. He may prescribe a different form a calcium supplement that you can better tolerate.
Constipation
Constipation is also associated with calcium supplementation. Specifically, calcium supplementation may cause constipation if calcium levels are too high, states MayoClinic.com. In this case, you are at risk of calcium overdose and may begin to feel other signs of overdose, including headache, depression and unusual tiredness or weakness. Immediately stop taking your calcium supplement and let your doctor know. In severe cases, you may be advised to go to the emergency room for treatment.
Metallic Taste
You may experience a metallic taste with calcium supplementation. If you experience this when you start taking calcium supplements, you should let your doctor know. He may reduce the dose or prescribe a different form of calcium. If you have been taking calcium supplements and recently increased your dosage, you may begin to experience a metallic taste. Inform your doctor, because a metallic taste may also be an early sign of overdose.
Loss of Appetite
Decreased appetite or loss of appetite is associated with calcium supplements. This occurs because calcium may upset your digestive tract, causing you to feel less hungry. If this occurs, inform your doctor. In addition, weigh yourself regularly to make sure your weight is not falling below a healthy range. Also monitor other signs of malnutrition, such as weakness and fatigue. Your doctor will likely prescribe a different medication that will not negatively affect your appetite.
