What is the serum calcium test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a serum calcium test?
The serum calcium test is a measure of calcium in the blood. Too high or too low calcium in the blood may be indicative of a wide number of diseases.
Also Read: Phosphorus Test
What is the function of calcium in the blood?
It is an important mineral in the body. Only 1% of calcium is present in the blood and the remaining is present in the bones and teeth. The right amount of calcium is required for the heart, muscles and nerves to be working properly.
What are the other names for the test?
Other names for this test include total calcium and ionized calcium.
What is this test used for?
This is a useful test to measure the general health of a person. Also, many health conditions are measured affecting bones, digestive system, kidneys, parathyroid and thyroid.
What are the types of calcium blood tests?
There are two main types of calcium blood tests done which are:
- Total calcium test: all calcium present in the blood is measured which includes
- Bound calcium: which is present as being attached to the protein present in the blood
- Free calcium: also known as ionized calcium which is not bound to proteins
- Ionized calcium test: a free form of calcium not attached to proteins in the blood.
What are the symptoms of high serum calcium?
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Confusion
- Increase in thirst
What are the symptoms of low calcium levels?
- Dry skin
- Brittle nails and coarse hair
- Tingling (in lips, feet and fingers)
- Muscle cramps
- Arrhythmia
What if you have high calcium levels?
The following conditions may be present:
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Bone disorders( like Paget’s disease)
- Certain cancers spread to bones
- Have taken vitamin D supplements for a long time
What if you have low calcium levels?
The following conditions may be present:
- Malnutrition or liver disease with low protein in the blood
- Pancreatitis
- Lesser calcium in the diet
- Hypoparathyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Lesser magnesium in the diet
- Lesser vitamin D in the diet
Is there any preparation to be done before the test?
No special preparation is required except to stop taking vitamin D supplements for accurate test results before getting it done.
Is fasting required before the test?
If other tests are ordered along with this test which may require fasting then only it is required to fast for several hours before the test.
