Question:
High Blood Calcium

I had a rny bypass in June of 2007, so I am 4 years out. I have regular bloodwork and had high normal blood calcium for the last 2 years. Recently it has slipped into the high range. I have taken 1200-1500 calcium citrate, 5000 iu Vit. D, and 1000 magnesium daily. My bariatric surgeon doesn't seem too concerned, but my gp is very worried. He put me on lasix and that brought it down to normal, but it went back up when I went off of it. Has anyone else had this issue? Were you able to find that magic bullet to fix it? I only take 20 mg of Lasix a day, so I guess I could maintain that, but I feel out of whack. I haven't taken any calcium or vit. D in 3 weeks and I am feeling pretty tired. thanks for your help.    — Debbi S. (posted on August 20, 2011)

August 20, 2011
I don't have an answer and I am not a doctor. Just a comment. I am 3 years out and I don't know if my situation has any reflection on yours. I had blood tests in May and my PTH number was very high as well as the blood calcium. He sent me to an endocrynologist. My thyroid was working fine but I had a parathyroid gland (PTH count) that was defective. I had never heard of that gland before and did not realize that those glands and your thyroid gland direct all of your bodily functions. It would be a question about which to ask your doctor. I give great thanks to my PCP for recognizing that I may have had a problem with those 2 high count items. I had never even heard of a parathyroid gland but my diseased one is out and I am recovering. Sometimes doctors don't see the whole picture, they should, but they don't always. Good luck. Hope they find your problem.
   — KathyStarling

August 21, 2011
thanks, Kathy! Actually, I should have added that my PTH levels were high, but they have since returned to normal. I guess it will require more tests. Right now, I am cutting back on caffeine and not drinking any carbonated drinks. We'll see.
   — Debbi S.