Calcium

Beyond building strong bones, calcium is essential to your health.

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.

Sample Type

Blood

$23

Preparation

No special preparation. However, certain medications, multivitamins, and supplements can interfere with this test. See test description.

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. Purchase your tests

Shop for tests and pay online. We do not bill insurance.
An independent physician will review and approve your test requests; no doctor’s visit is required.

2. Visit a LabCorp location

We'll email you your lab requisition number. Bring this number and photo ID to a LabCorp location for sample collection. You can make an appointment or just walk in.

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.