What does the Calcium - CA blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
The Calcium (CA) test measures the amount of calcium in your blood. Calcium is essential for various bodily functions, including: - Building and maintaining strong bones and teeth - Muscle contraction and relaxation - Nerve signaling - Blood clotting - Hormone secretion - Enzyme activation This test helps assess calcium metabolism, bone health, and various conditions affecting calcium levels. It's often part of routine health screenings or used to monitor certain medical conditions and treatments.
A low calcium level (hypocalcemia) can indicate:
Symptoms may include muscle cramps, tingling in fingers and toes, and seizures in severe cases. Low calcium can affect heart rhythm and bone health. Further tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause, and treatment typically involves addressing the root issue and possibly calcium supplementation.
A high calcium level (hypercalcemia) can indicate:
Symptoms may include fatigue, confusion, muscle weakness, and kidney stones. Severe cases can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities and coma. Further testing is usually required to determine the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the severity and cause but may include increasing fluid intake, medications, or addressing the primary condition.