Calcium Blood Test
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and contributes to the growth and development of bones, regulates muscle contraction (including the beating of your heart), and plays a significant role in blood clotting.
Calcium is found in a variety of foods including milk, cheese, yogurt, beans, figs, broccoli, spinach, nuts, and seeds. Several drinks, including soy milk and orange juice, offer versions fortified with calcium.
This test measures the total amount of calcium in the blood to screen for, diagnose, and monitor a range of health conditions relating to the bones, heart, nerves, kidneys, and teeth. It’s important to note that taking medications such as lithium, antacids, diuretics, and vitamin D supplements can affect the accuracy of your results.
Preparation
Certain medications, multivitamins, and supplements can interfere with test results. Please see test description.
What's Included
A mineral essential to bone and muscle health.
Why Consider This Test
Affects Bone Health
When you’re not getting enough calcium whether it’s from not ingesting enough or poor absorption, the body takes the calcium it needs to maintain calcium in your blood from your bones. Over time, this can weaken your bones.1
Sluggish Symptoms
High blood levels of serum calcium often do not cause symptoms, but when significantly elevated they can cause constipation and lethargy. Low levels of calcium can cause insomnia or sleepiness, extreme fatigue, lethargy, and an overall feeling of sluggishness.2
Age Increases Risk
Many people are at an increased risk of calcium deficiency as they age. This deficiency may be due to a variety of factors, including:2
• Medications that may decrease calcium absorption
• Hormonal changes, especially in women
• Certain genetic factors
References
- Nordqvist, Christian. “Calcium: Health Benefits, Foods, and Deficiency.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 21 Aug. 2017, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248958.php.
- Barhum, Lana. “What Happens When Calcium Levels Are Low?” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321865.php. Last Reviewed May 21, 2018.
How To Get This Test
1. Choose your tests
Shop for tests and pay online. An independent physician will review and approve your test requests; no doctor’s visit is required.
2. Provide Your Sample
Take the requisition number we emailed you, along with a photo ID, to a LabCorp location for sample collection.
3. Access your results online
View your easy-to-read results online in your Pixel by LabCorp account. For certain results that require prompt attention, you will also be contacted by phone or mail.
Getting My Results
We've made getting your results easier and more convenient than ever. View your easy-to-read results online in your Pixel by LabCorp account. For certain results that require prompt attention, you will also be contacted by phone or mail. To view a sample report click the "sample report" button below.
