Calcium Blood Test -- Monitor Bone, Nerve, and Muscle Health
Although 99 % of the body's calcium is stored in bones and teeth, the remaining 1 % in the blood is biologically critical. Blood calcium is tightly regulated by parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D. This test measures total circulating calcium, which reflects how well these regulatory systems are working. It does not indicate bone calcium status -- a separate DEXA scan is needed for that.
Why Test Calcium?
Testing calcium is recommended if you have symptoms suggesting a disorder of the kidneys, bones, thyroid, or parathyroid, or if your levels of calcium have been previously abnormal. It is also part of many routine health panels and is useful for monitoring patients taking calcium or vitamin D supplements.
What Do High Calcium Levels Mean?
High calcium (hypercalcaemia) is most often caused by hyperparathyroidism or cancer. Other causes include tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, excess vitamin D intake, and medications such as thiazide diuretics, lithium, and tamoxifen. Symptoms range from fatigue and nausea to kidney stones and bone pain.
What Do Low Calcium Levels Mean?
Low calcium (hypocalcaemia) is most commonly due to low albumin levels (from liver disease or malnutrition). Other causes include hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, magnesium deficiency, and malabsorption. Severe cases can lead to muscle spasms, numbness, and seizures.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Fatigue and mood changes
- Brittle nails and dry skin
- Frequent urination and increased thirst (high calcium)
- Bone pain or kidney stones (high calcium)
Who Should Get Tested?
- People with bone, thyroid, or parathyroid symptoms
- Those with kidney disease or chronic malabsorption
- Individuals taking calcium or vitamin D supplements
- Patients with a history of kidney stones
- Anyone undergoing a routine metabolic panel
How to Prepare for Your Test
No advance preparation is needed. Bring a valid ID.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your Calcium levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this test show if I have enough calcium in my bones?
Can vitamin D deficiency affect my calcium?
Should I stop calcium supplements before the test?
Why is albumin important for calcium results?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
Learn more about our team →Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.