Answer Key — Hypercalcemia
True – Hypercalcemia is the medical word for too much calcium in the blood.
False – Calcium is important for bones and for muscles, nerves, and heart function.
True – Overactive parathyroid glands are one of the most common causes of hypercalcemia.
True – Staying hydrated can help your kidneys flush out extra calcium.
True – Too much vitamin D can cause the body to absorb too much calcium.
True – Increased thirst and urination are common symptoms of high calcium.
True – Long periods of bedrest can cause calcium to move out of bones into the blood.
False – While dairy foods have calcium, hypercalcemia is rarely caused only by eating them.
True – High calcium can form kidney stones, which can be painful and dangerous.
True – High calcium can affect the brain and cause confusion and tiredness.
True – Calcium helps control heartbeats; too much can cause irregular rhythms.
False – Hypercalcemia is treated by lowering calcium, not adding more.
True – IV fluids and certain medicines can help reduce calcium levels.
True – If supplements are the cause, stopping them can help lower calcium levels.
True – Bone pain and muscle aches may happen because calcium is leaving the bones.
True – Chest pain or irregular heartbeat can be life-threatening; go to the ER.
True – Extra calcium can build up in the kidneys and cause long-term damage.
True – Activity and weight-bearing exercises help keep calcium in the bones.
True – Some supplements and vitamins can raise calcium; your doctor needs to know.
False – Weakness and confusion can be serious; report them right away, not at your next appointment.