CALCIUM

Calcium levels in Serum are used in Diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of disorders including Diseases of Bone, Kidney, Parathyroid Gland, or Gastrointestinal tract. Hypocalcemia is due to the absence or impaired function of the Parathyroid Glands or impaired Vitamin-D synthesis. Chronic Renal failure is also frequently associated with Hypocalcemia. Hypercalcemia is brought about by increased mobilization of calcium from the skeletal system or increased intestinal absorption. Calcium levels may also reflect abnormal vitamin D or protein levels.

• Health Screening: Often, a routine health screening includes a measurement of the total calcium level. It is a part of the Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) and Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), which are sets of tests used in combination to diagnose or track a variety of conditions.
• Diagnose Calcium Deficiency and Related Disorders: There is an underlying issue when the total calcium result is abnormal. Additional tests to measure Ionized Calcium, Urine Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), and PTH-related peptide (PTHrP) are advised along with this test to aid in the diagnosis. Calcium levels in the blood are kept within a specific range by PTH and vitamin D.

The following are a few signs that could indicate an Calcium Test:

 High Calcium levels:

• Constipation
• Nausea 
• Vomiting
• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Loss of appetite
• Increased thirst
• Excessive urination
• Kidney stones
• Bone, joint, and muscle symptoms, such as weakness, aches, and pains
• Fatigue
• Depression 
• Confusion

• Dry skin, coarse hair, and brittle nails
• Muscle cramps
• Spasms and stiffness in muscles
• Tingling in the lips, tongue, fingers, and feet
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Seizures, if calcium levels are extremely low

• Kidney disease
• Thyroid or Parathyroid disease
• Malnutrition
• Problems absorbing calcium
• Certain types of Cancer

It is necessary to fast overnight prior to taking a Calcium test, which means you can only drink water but cannot eat for this time period. Ask your doctor if you need to temporarily stop taking any of your regular medications because they may have an impact on the results of this test.

The Price of a Calcium Test is Rs. 180. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with Calcium Test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient