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Greater than 5 years. This resource was developed, reviewed or revised more than 5 years ago and may no longer reflect current evidence or best practice.
What is it? High level of calcium in the blood
What causes it?
  • Cancer in the bone:
    • increase in the amount of calcium absorbed into the blood from the bones
    • inability of the kidneys to get rid of the excess calcium
Symptoms
  • Increased urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Dehydration
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Muscle weakness
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
How to treat
  • Fluids to treat the dehydration
  • Treatment with drugs called bisphosphonates to stop damage to the bone
  • A change in hormonal therapy or chemotherapy
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