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The normal range of calcium in the body is 8–10 mg/dL. If the calcium levels increase above 10.5 mg/dL, it is known as hypercalcemia
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Lithium therapy, which is often given in psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder and mania, can indirectly lead to increased calcium levels
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Malignant conditions like breast cancer and tumours in the lung or kidney can also cause hypercalcemia. It is important to regularly check calcium levels in such conditions
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If you consume too much vitamin D via supplementation, it may raise the amount of calcium in your bloodstream and may even become an emergency if severe
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You may experience excessive lethargy, fatigue, and memory loss, along with confusion, paranoia, and depression. Stupor or coma may be seen in extreme cases
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Hypercalcemia may present as inflammation of joints, called arthritis, as well as that of the bones, osteitis. Soft, weak bones may also be seen
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Excessive calcium can cause constipation, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and also peptic ulcers. A few cases may also show inflammation of the pancreas
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You may develop kidney stones or notice blood in urine. A history of increased thirst and changes in the frequency of urination must be mentioned
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Not having any symptoms does not mean you don’t have hypercalcemia. Some people do not experience any symptoms or may have general features like tiredness or weight loss
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In cases of acute presentations, the body must be rehydrated on time. At least 4 to 6 litres of saline is used for this purpose, along with phosphorus-containing medicines