Thursday, February 26, 2009

What Causes A Calcium Deposit

Calcium deposits are tiny accumulations of calcium. They can crop up in any part of the body, though they seem to be particularly prevalent in the shoulders. The causes of these deposits are baffling to many, though the list of potential culprits linked to them include deficiencies in the supply of some vitamins and emotional stress. In many cases, calcium deposits do not require any medical attention, and oftentimes they cure themselves by being absorbed back into the body.


Identification


Calcium deposits initially feel very soft. They have been described as having a soft and mushy texture, similar to that of toothpaste. However, with time they gradually increase in size, and then the calcium starts to dry up and harden, with a consistency that feels similar to that of chalk. Eventually, the deposits start to feel like a heavy stone in a part of the body, whether it is the shoulder or the foot. Calcium deposits are generally painful.


Diet


It is believed that having a poor diet is related to the development of calcium deposits, so people whose diets are not nutritionally balanced are often at risk. Diets with insufficient calcium and that are lacking in other minerals can lead to trouble. A minimum of 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily (either from nutritional supplements or diet) is recommended. Diets lacking in magnesium and vitamin K are also thought to leave people prone to calcium deposits.


Other Theories


There are some other less common theories about why calcium deposits develop on the body. Some of these theories include poor blood supply as well as the tendon aging.


Risk Factors


Females develop calcium deposits more often than males do. Other risk factors that are commonly associated with the development of calcium deposits on the body include osteoporosis (a bone disorder that results in fracture occurring more often), and the aging process.


Vitamin D Toxicity


One theory is that Vitamin D toxicity can lead to calcium deposits appearing. Vitamin D toxicity is a condition that arises when too much vitamin D is consumed. The symptoms of Vitamin D toxicity include nausea, vomiting, anorexia, anxiety and weakness, all related to hypercalcemia (a condition that features raised calcium levels within the bloodstream).







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