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Raised calcium and low vitamin D

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frances02122
frances02122

Hi all, i have just got the results of my latest blood tests and my calcium is 2.74. It has been similar for over 3 years and my endocrinologist does not seem unduly concerned although i was originally told i had hyperparathyroidism. He is concerned that my vitamin D is below 30 and wants me to take high strength vitamin D for a month then check my bloods again to see if it raises my calcium. I am now starting to wonder if it is my parathyroid glands or not, maybe this is why he wants me to raise my vitamin D level to see what effect it has on my calcium levels. Has anyone been in a similar situation ? 

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • gaynor76067
    gaynor76067 frances02122

    Posted

    Hi Frances. I have recently had a parathyroidectomy because of raised calcium levels similar to yours. Believe me you need to be referred to an appropriate surgeon. My endocrinologist delayed my referral for ages until I became insistant. Raised calcium levels are nearly always to do with parathyroid tumours. Only surgery will correct this problem. Its only a short stay in hospital and a relatively simple proceedure. Im so glad I had it done for peace of mind. I am now taking vit d daily. There is no point in taking anything beforehand if you need surgery. Good luck and remember that untreated parathyroid tumours cause osteoporosis as I know only to well. Hope this has been helpfull

    • frances02122
      frances02122 gaynor76067

      Posted

      Hi Gaynor, thanks for reply. When i 1st started seeing the endocrinologist for tests he said he was not certain it was parathyroid but i had regular blood tests and a dexa scan which showed a bit on bone thinning  and a scan of kidneys which showed i had no stones just a benign cyst. My symptoms were mainly not feeling well - tired, tender aching muscles and joints plus some random muscle and joint pains. After a year of appointments he said he would be willing to do a parathyroidectomy if i wanted it !! He did not say i needed it so as he seemed uncertain i was confused and as i said to my gp "would you have an operation for something you might not have". My Gp shrugged as said probably not. Then a few months ago a new gp at the practice actually printed off the letter from the endocrinologist which states i have primery hyperparathyroidism. So now i am back for regular blood calcium tests but they seem more concerned with my low vitamin D. I was worried about this raising my calcium which is why they want to check it after a month. Your reply has made me decide that if the vitamin D does raise my calcium i will insist they find and remove any faulty glands so thanks again for your reply.
  • gaynor76067
    gaynor76067 frances02122

    Posted

    Cant help feeling your being ignored Francis. You need to be referred to an endocrinologist who can arrange scans. I had three. A sestamabi scan, a ct scan and an ultrasound scan. These located the offending parathyroid and the surgeon was able to operate. I get so annoyed that this problem is not taken seriously enough by the medical profession because hyperparathyroidism can cause so much damage
    • frances02122
      frances02122 gaynor76067

      Posted

      Hi Gaynor, i am wondering if they have been fobbing me off to save costs. I will ask the endocrinologist if i can have the scans you mention when i go to my next appointment.  Thanks.
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