Serum Calcium

Calcium is one of the important and abundant minerals in our body. It is essential for various bodily functions, such as nerve transmission, cell signaling, and muscle contraction. The body also needs calcium to keep the bones healthy and strong, for blood clotting, and to regulate heart rhythms.

The Serum Calcium test is performed if you experience weakness, fatigue, excessive urination and thirst, nausea, stomach pain, constipation, irregular heartbeat, brittle nails, weak and brittle bones, muscle cramps, irritability, or confusion. Furthermore, a calcium blood test aids in the diagnosis of conditions related to calcium metabolism, parathyroid disorders, kidney diseases, and bone health. 

Regular calcium testing may also help monitor the treatment response for abnormal calcium levels, especially in critically ill patients like those suffering from cancer or kidney disorders. It is particularly crucial for individuals with chronic conditions to ensure optimal health.

Low calcium levels, known as hypocalcemia, can be linked to causes such as hypoparathyroidism, kidney diseases, malabsorption disorders, or vitamin D deficiency. On the other hand, high calcium levels, termed hypercalcemia, can be associated with symptoms signaling hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, kidney dysfunction, or excessive calcium supplementation.

Usually, overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred for this test; however, it is not mandatory. Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. These will help the doctor determine appropriate treatments, whether through calcium supplements, medications, dietary adjustments, or lifestyle modifications.