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Calcium is one of the key components of our body, playing an important role in maintaining its proper functioning. Calcium levels in the blood can have a significant impact on our health, so it is worth understanding what calcium is, what its importance is and what the consequences of too low (hypocalcemia) or too high (hypercalcemia) levels of this element may be. In this article, we will also discuss how to prepare for a blood calcium level test and how to maintain the proper concentration of this element in the body.
What is calcium?
Calcium is a mineral that is an integral part of our body. It is necessary for many physiological processes, including the proper functioning of muscles, nervous system, heart and skeletal system. Calcium also plays an important role in the blood clotting process and regulation of blood pressure. It is an element that is the foundation of a healthy body.
The role of calcium in the proper functioning of the body
Calcium plays a key role in many life processes. Its main functions include:
- Ensuring the proper condition of bones and teeth.
- Maintaining the acid-base balance of the body.
- Supporting muscle contractions, including the heart.
- Regulation of nerve conduction.
- Participation in the blood clotting process.
Calcium is essential for our health, which is why testing its level in the blood is an important diagnostic tool.
Blood calcium level test. how to prepare for the test?
Before testing your blood calcium level, there are some recommendations you should consider. First of all, you should notify your doctor about any medications and dietary supplements you are taking, because some of them may affect the test results. You should also follow the recommendations regarding the timing of meals before the test, as calcium levels in the body may be influenced by food.
Calcium – the norm for women, men and children in test results
Blood calcium levels may vary slightly depending on the patient’s age and gender. Generally accepted standards range from 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dl, but the exact values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory. For children and adolescents, these standards are slightly higher, while in women during pregnancy and lactation they may be slightly lower.
Hypocalcemia – causes and symptoms of low calcium levels in the body
Hypocalcemia is a condition in which the level of calcium in the blood is too low. Hypocalcemia may be caused by calcium deficiency in the diet, impaired absorption of this element from the gastrointestinal tract, thyroid disease, improper functioning of the parathyroid glands, as well as some medications. Symptoms of hypocalcemia may include muscle cramps, tremors, weakness, tingling around the mouth and hands, and heart problems.
Hypercalcemia – causes and symptoms of too high calcium levels in the body
Hypercalcemia is a condition in which the level of calcium in the blood is too high. The causes of hypercalcemia may be excessive supply of calcium in the diet, parathyroid diseases, some cancers, excess vitamin D, or certain medications. Symptoms of hypercalcemia may include muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, kidney stones, urinary problems, and heart rhythm disturbances.
How to ensure proper calcium concentration?
To maintain proper calcium levels in the body, it is worth maintaining an appropriate diet, rich in dairy products, nuts, seeds, eggs and leafy vegetables. Regular physical activity also helps maintain proper calcium levels in the body. In case of problems with calcium absorption or parathyroid diseases, consultation with a doctor and possible pharmacological therapy are necessary.
Your suggestions
If you have any questions or suggestions about your blood calcium levels, it is always worth consulting your doctor or nutritionist. By ensuring the appropriate amount of calcium in our diet and regularly checking its level in the blood, we can take care of our health and prevent many health problems related to disturbances in the level of this important mineral.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about calcium and its impact on health, we recommend you read the following articles:
- “Calcium in the diet – why is it so important?”
- “The importance of calcium in the prevention of osteoporosis.”
- “What foods are rich in calcium?”
Knowing the role of calcium in the body and monitoring its level in the blood is the key to maintaining health and preventing many diseases. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to this important mineral and ensuring its proper concentration in the body.