Serum Calcium near me in Delhi

Calcium is one of the most common minerals in the body. In your blood, calcium exists in two forms: ionized (free) and bound (attached to proteins like albumin). The Serum Calcium measures total calcium, which includes both types.

The Serum Calcium test is usually done if you have:

• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Tingling in your hands or feet
• Fatigue or weakness
• Bone pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Confusion
• Perioral numbness
• Tetany
• Seizures

Calcium blood test also helps diagnose and monitor calcium metabolism problems, parathyroid or kidney diseases, bone disorders, and how treatments are working in very ill patients.

Low calcium levels are called hypocalcemia. This can happen due to:

• Vitamin D deficiency
• Kidney problems
• Low parathyroid hormone
• Hypoparathyroidism (post-thyroid/parathyroid surgery, autoimmune)
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Acute pancreatitis
• Sepsis & critical illness
• Hypoalbuminemia (pseudo-hypocalcemia)
• Magnesium deficiency
• Medications: bisphosphonates, calcitonin, phenytoin

High calcium levels are called hypercalcemia. This can occur because of:

• Overactive parathyroid glands
• Certain cancers
• Kidney disease
• Too much calcium intake
• Primary hyperparathyroidism
• Malignancy (lytic bone lesions, myeloma)
• Excess Vitamin D or calcium intake
• Sarcoidosis / granulomatous disorders
• Thiazide diuretics
• Immobilization
• Thyrotoxicosis

An overnight fast (8-12 hours) is preferred but not mandatory for serum calcium test preparation. Always tell your doctor about any medicines or supplements you take, as these can affect calcium levels. 

Test results can vary slightly between labs. Talk to your doctor to understand your test results. Your doctor will suggest the best treatment or lifestyle changes based on your test results.

What Are the Symptoms or Conditions That May Require the Serum Calcium Test?

You may need the Serum Calcium test if you have:

• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Tingling in hands or feet
• Fatigue or weakness
• Bone pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Confusion
• Kidney or parathyroid problems 
• Long-term use of calcium or vitamin D supplements

When Would I Need the Serum Calcium Test?

You might need this test:

• As part of your regular health checkup
• To check if your body has too little or too much calcium
• If you have muscle cramps, bone pain, or feel weak
• To see how treatment is working for low or high calcium levels
• To check calcium balance if you have kidney or parathyroid problems

How Do I Prepare for the Serum Calcium Test?

Do I need to fast or stop any medications before the Serum Calcium test?

Overnight fasting( 8-12 hours) is usually preferred for this test. However, it is not mandatory. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as these may affect the test results. Your doctor will guide you if any temporary adjustments are needed before the test.

How is the Serum Calcium done?

• The Serum Calcium is done by collecting a small amount of blood from a vein, usually in the arm. 
• The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and generally causes only slight discomfort.

What happens during the Serum Calcium test?

• You will sit comfortably with your arm resting on a flat surface or armrest.
• An elastic band (tourniquet) will be tied around your upper arm to make your veins easier to see and find.
• The phlebotomist will select a suitable vein for drawing blood.
• The skin will be cleaned with an alcohol wipe to prevent infection.
• A thin, sterile needle will be gently inserted into the vein to collect a small amount of blood into a test tube.

What happens after the Serum Calcium test?

• Once enough blood is collected, the tourniquet is released and the needle is removed.
• A cotton ball or gauze is placed on the site, followed by a small bandage or dressing to stop any bleeding.
• The blood sample is carefully labeled with your details and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
• You can resume your daily routine after the test is done.

Is the Serum Calcium test painful?

No, the Serum Calcium test is generally safe and painless. You may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection. However, the chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

How Long Does the Serum Calcium Test Take?

The procedure is quick, simple, and safe. It requires only a small blood sample and is completed within a short duration.

When Will I Get the Results?

The availability of your test report may vary depending on your location and the laboratory where the test is conducted. In general, Tata 1mg provides the results within the stipulated time after sample collection.

When Should I Consult a Doctor After the Test?

You should consult your doctor if:

• Calcium levels are above or below the normal range.
• You experience muscle cramps, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.
• You have a known parathyroid or kidney disorder.
• You take supplements affecting calcium balance.

Are There Any Risks Associated with the Serum Calcium Test?

The Serum Calcium test is safe, with only minimal and short-lasting effects like:

• Small bruise, pinch, or slight tenderness at the puncture site
• Occasional lightheadedness if you are sensitive to needles or blood
• Rarely, infection or blood vessel injury

Note: If you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, inform the phlebotomist beforehand.

Lifestyle Tips To Maintain Healthy Calcium Levels  

💧 Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help the kidneys regulate calcium balance.

🥗 Eat Healthy: Include calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and fortified cereals in your diet.

🚴‍♀️ Activity: Engage in regular exercise to strengthen bones and enhance calcium metabolism.

😴 Lifestyle: Get enough good-quality sleep, as poor sleep can affect hormone balance and calcium regulation.

👨‍⚕️ Talk to Your Doctor (consultation): Take calcium or vitamin D supplements only under medical supervision.

🍺 Habits (smoking and alcohol): Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption to maintain bone and calcium health.