Psychological and General Symptoms of Hypercalcemia

Introduction to Hypercalcemia

Hypercalacemia, is a condition with an abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood. It is usually caused by an overactive Parathyroid gland.

There are 4 Parathyroid glands in the neck, situated around the Thyroid gland, hence the name.

Hypercalcaemia can have significant effects on various systems in the body, including Cardiovascular, Renal, Gastrointestinal , Skeletal, Neurological and Psychological.

I would like to address the affect of Hypercalcaemia on the General  and the Psychological Symptoms which are usually not recognised as being caused by Hypercalcaemia and can severely impact an  individual’s quality of life.

If a person experiences persistent tiredness and lack of energy, generalised muscle weakness and reduced physical strength and  or has excessive thirst and increased urination causing dehydration in some patients, blood Calcium levels need to be checked.

General Symptoms of Hypercalcemia

Hypercalacemia as the cause of Psychological symptoms is missed in many patients. Some of these patients are commenced on anti depressant and anti anxiety medications without having their blood calcium and Parathyroid harm checked. I have operated patients who were admitted to Mental Health Units for treatment Clinical Depression and later a diagnosis of Hypercalcaemia due Hyperparathyroidism was made.

Psychological Symptoms of Hypercalcemia

These patients can present with feelings of sadness, hopelessness and lack of interest in activities which they pursue and normally enjoy.

Mood swings , increased irritability and rarely uncharacteristic aggressive behaviour.

Severe cases of undiagnosed Hypercalcaemia can cause delusions and hallucinations.

Easy detection and treatment are crucial to prevent other systemic complications and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Hypercalcaemia, especially psychological symptoms it is essential to seek medical advice and get the levels of Calcium and Parathyroid Hormone  checked to confirm the diagnosis.

Patients and  doctors  need to be aware of the diagnosis before treatment is commenced on antidepressants and anxiolytic treatment.

In my many years as an Endocrine Surgeon I have come across many patients whose Psychological symptoms and  undue fatigue was caused by Hypercalcaemia due Hyperparathyroidism and an operation to remove the affected Parathyroid gland cured them of their symptoms and changed their quality of life for good.

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