What is a common symptom of hypercalcemia?

Hypercalcemia, which is an elevated level of calcium in the blood, often leads to a variety of symptoms due to its impact on different bodily systems. One common symptom associated with hypercalcemia is constipation. This occurs because high calcium levels can interfere with normal gastrointestinal motility, slowing down the movement of food through the intestines.

Patients with hypercalcemia may experience reduced peristalsis, leading to difficulty in bowel movements. This is a well-documented effect of increased calcium on the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, contributing to the symptom of constipation often seen in these cases.

Understanding the physiological role of calcium in muscle contraction and nerve signaling helps clarify why constipation is a prevalent symptom, as it reflects the disruption of normal muscle function throughout the body, including the digestive system.