What are the common causes of hypercalcemia?
Hypercalcemia is a relatively serious disease, and many other diseases can cause it. For instance, patients with malignant tumors, secondary hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D poisoning, dehydration, and other conditions can develop hypercalcemia. Therefore, when treating hypercalcemia, it is necessary to identify the underlying cause in each patient to prescribe the appropriate treatment. Hypercalcemia is a disease that can endanger the life and health of patients, with a case-fatality rate generally as high as 50%. Patients with hyperparathyroidism and malignant tumors are prone to this disease. After becoming ill, patients may exhibit varying degrees of systemic symptoms depending on the acuity of their condition's progression. So, what are the common causes of hypercalcemia?
Malignant Tumors: Malignant tumors are one of the main causes of hypercalcemia. Various cancers, such as lung cancer and renal cancer, can easily lead to hypercalcemia. Additionally, prostate cancer and renal cancer can increase bone resorption in patients, thereby elevating their blood calcium levels.
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: Chronic nephritis and vitamin D deficiency can cause patients to experience long-term hypocalcemia, which generally improves after surgical treatment.
Hyperthyroidism: Although thyroid hormones can increase bone resorption in patients, when resorption exceeds bone formation, it can cause hypercalcemia. A decrease in calcitonin levels can also lead to hypercalcemia.
Vitamin D Poisoning: Excessive consumption of vitamin D preparations by patients can increase the dissolution of bone calcium absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, leading to increased renal tubular reabsorption of calcium and, consequently, hypercalcemia.
Dehydration: When patients experience severe dehydration, it can cause hypovolemia. At this point, the renal function of patients begins to increase the absorption of calcium, leading to hypercalcemia due to an increase in the total calcium level in the body.
Hypercalcemia is actually a complication of various diseases, and many diseases can potentially trigger its occurrence. The primary focus of treatment is to address the underlying disease to control the progression of hypercalcemia. Moreover, since hypercalcemia can lead to complications such as depression, patients must adjust their mindset during treatment to avoid excessive negativity and pessimism. Actively cooperating with treatment and maintaining a good mood are also crucial for recovering from the disease.
