What is hypercalcaemia?
Calcium is a mineral that’s vital for the development of healthy bones and teeth – 99 per cent of the calcium in our bodies is found here. It’s also needed for muscle contraction, regulation of the heartbeat and formation of blood clots. A long-term shortage of calcium can lead to osteoporosis (brittle-bone disease). The four pea-sized parathyroid glands (found at the front of the neck) are responsible for regulating the body’s calcium levels. These small glands, which are embedded in the tissue of the thyroid gland in the neck, detect fluctuations in the level of calcium in the blood. There are times when this delicate balance is upset and too much calcium enters the blood. If levels rise too much, the glands decrease the secretion of the parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium levels return to normal again.Symptoms Too much calcium in the blood may cause: • Abdominal pain • Nausea and vomiting • Constipation • Loss of appetite • Excessive thirst • Excessive passing of water • Tiredness