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Calcium Total & Ionized

Also known as Ca Total & Ionized

Calcium Total & Ionized Includes 2 testsView All

₹629~~₹700~~ 10% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory.

Understanding Calcium Total & Ionized

What is Calcium Total & Ionized?

The Calcium Total & Ionized test measures the overall calcium content in the blood. This includes both bound and free forms of calcium. It is essential for assessing calcium levels in the body. This can help diagnose and monitor bone disorders, kidney disease, and parathyroid abnormalities. This test ensures that calcium levels are within a healthy range for optimal bodily functions.

The Calcium Total & Ionized test helps understand calcium homeostasis. It offers insights into both total and free (ionized) calcium levels in the bloodstream. It comprises two blood tests: serum calcium and ionized calcium. The serum calcium test evaluates the overall calcium present in the body. It includes both bound forms (attached to proteins) and the free, active fraction. Conversely, the ionized calcium test specifically measures the unbound calcium, which is crucial for numerous physiological processes, including muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood coagulation.

By analyzing both total and ionized calcium, doctors can better diagnose and manage a range of conditions. This includes parathyroid disorders such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism and metabolic bone disorders. This is specifically useful in patients with kidney disease, as they often have altered calcium and phosphate metabolism. Additionally, this test is particularly valuable in acute care settings, where accurate and timely information is vital for patient management. Especially in those undergoing significant surgical procedures involving the thyroid or parathyroid glands.

Usually, overnight fasting is preferred for this test. It is advisable to follow the doctor’s instructions and inform them of any medications or supplements being taken, as these may affect the test results. The doctor may advise stopping them temporarily. Do not take calcium supplements for 8 to 12 hours before the test, as these may affect the test results.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Do not self-medicate at home solely based on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights from the Calcium Total & Ionized test help doctors make informed decisions about the treatment and suggest medications, lifestyle changes, or dietary modifications.

What is Calcium Total & Ionized used for?

The Calcium Total & Ionized test is done:

To evaluate calcium metabolism and detect imbalances in calcium levels.
To help diagnose conditions affecting the parathyroid glands, such as hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism.
To monitor kidney function and detect abnormalities related to calcium excretion.
To assess bone health and the risk of osteoporosis or other bone diseases.
To assess calcium levels during any procedure requiring rapid transfusion.
To evaluate the body's acid-base balance and detect conditions like acidosis or alkalosis.
To monitor the effectiveness of treatments that affect calcium levels, such as calcium medications for bone disorders.

What does Calcium Total & Ionized measure?

Contains 2 tests

The Calcium Total & Ionized test measures the combined levels of both bound and free calcium in the bloodstream. This includes calcium that is attached to proteins. Primarily albumin, as well as the free, active form is crucial for various physiological functions. Total calcium plays a significant role in maintaining bone density, regulating muscle function, and ensuring proper nerve transmission.

Serum calcium is an important test used to check calcium levels in the body. However, it is often paired with the ionized calcium test for a detailed insight into calcium metabolism, especially in critical care cases. It helps identify conditions with abnormal calcium levels. This information guides further diagnostic and therapeutic measures. Together, these measurements provide a comprehensive understanding of calcium status. It will help identify imbalances that may indicate underlying health issues.

Serum Calcium

The Serum Calcium test measures the levels of calcium in the body. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body; most of it is present in the bones and teeth, and the remaining portion (around 1%) is found in the blood. It is usually present in two forms in blood in about equal amounts: "bound calcium," which is attached to proteins in the blood, and "free calcium or ionized calcium," which is not attached to any protein.

The Serum Calcium test cannot be used to check for lack of calcium in your diet or osteoporosis (loss of calcium from bones) as the body can have normal calcium levels even in dietary calcium deficiency. Moreover, the body can normalize mild calcium deficiency by releasing the calcium stored in bones.

Know more about Serum Calcium

Ionized Calcium

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Calcium Total & Ionized

Frequently Asked Questions about Calcium Total & Ionized

Q. What is Calcium Total & Ionized test?

The Calcium Total & Ionized is a blood test that measures both total serum calcium and ionized calcium levels. It helps assess calcium metabolism, diagnose related disorders, and monitor conditions affecting bone health and kidney function.

Q. Why is the Calcium Total & Ionized test important?

These tests are crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions related to calcium imbalance. Conditions include parathyroid disorders, kidney disease, and osteoporosis. They provide insights that help guide treatment decisions.

Q. Which is better total calcium or ionized calcium test?

The ionized calcium test is generally considered better than the total calcium test. This is because it measures the biologically active form of calcium in the blood, providing a more comprehensive assessment of calcium status. Especially in critical care settings and in patients with conditions affecting protein levels.

Q. Are there any risks associated with the Calcium Total & Ionized test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting when a needle is pricked and may experience some normal bleeding that is usually not bothersome. Some people may also experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times daily for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. How often should I get the calcium tests?

Frequency depends on individual health conditions and doctor’s recommendations. People with chronic conditions may need more regular testing.

Q. What signs indicate you are not getting enough calcium in the body?

Brittle nails, tooth troubles, sleep problems, numbness and tingling in hands and feet, and muscle cramps are the signs you are not getting enough calcium.

Q. Should I take calcium supplements if my test results show low calcium levels?

Always consult your doctor before taking calcium supplements. However, a healthy diet including milk, cheese, yogurt, green leafy vegetables, and almonds can support your daily calcium needs.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

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