Calcium is used by the body to assist in:
- Blood clotting
- Muscle contractions
- Nerve impulse conduction
Most (98%) of the body's calcium is stored in the teeth and bones. In the
blood, about half the calcium is bound to plasma proteins, and about half is
free (ionized, Ca++).
Calcium levels may rise in the presence of:
- Cancer
- Acidosis
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Bedrest
- Calcium supplements
- Excessive Vitamin D intake
Calcium levels may fall in the presence of:
- Decreased plasma proteins
- Alkalosis
- Diarrhea
- Vitamin C deficiency
|
Normal Values*
| Men |
8.8-10.0 mg/dl |
|
Women
|
9.0-10.5 mg/dl |
| Pregnancy |
8.1-9.5 mg/dl |
| Children |
9.2-11.0 mg/dl |
*These are general values taken from a variety of
sources. The actual normal values may vary from lab to lab and from one
type of testing protocol to another.
|