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Can Calcium Supplements Cause a Lipoma?

Jul 7, 2011 | By Angel White

A lipoma is a fatty mass, or lump, that grows at a slow rate between your skin and muscle tissue. Lipomas are typically easy to identify because they move seamlessly when you apply pressure with your fingertips. MayoClinic.com notes that lipomas typically have a doughy feel but are not tender to the touch. You can have one or multiple lipomas at the same time or at different times at any age. There are a variety of options when it comes to treating lipomas, but calcium supplements are not one of those options.

Causes

DermNet NZ and MayoClinic.com report that the exact cause of lipomas is unknown but that genetics seem to contribute. If you have a family history of lipomas, your risk of developing a lipoma increases. A family history of lipomas does not necessarily guarantee that you will develop lipomas, but it is possible.

Calcium Supplements

Calcium supplements have not been identified as playing a role in the development of lipomas. The most common side effects from calcium supplements include drowsiness, nausea and vomiting and painful or difficulty urinating. If you begin to experience side effects while taking calcium supplements, inform your physician right away.

Risk Factors

In addition to genetics, age also increases your risk of developing lipomas. Lipomas can occur at any age but are most typical in people between to 40 to 60 years of age. Certain disorders such as adiposis dolorosa, Gardner syndrome, Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome and Madelung disease can increase your chances of developing one or more lipomas, according to MayoClinic.com.

Treatments

Lipomas generally are harmless and non-cancerous. Treatment usually isn't necessary unless the lipoma is bothersome to you. If the lipoma grows to a significant size or causes pain due to its location, ask your health-care provider about removing it. To help shrink the mass, your doctor may recommend steroid injections or he may recommend liposuction. Liposuction involves the use of a needle and syringe to suck out the fatty lump, but using this method is the most difficult and may not remove the entire lump. Lipomas can also be surgically removed when necessary. A biopsy of the mass may be performed to ensure it is non-cancerous.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jul 7, 2011

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