Free calcium – what do your numbers mean?
Have you had your Free calcium level measured and are unsure what the numbers mean? Here's a clear explanation of the normal range, what a high or low level might indicate, and when it makes sense to get tested.
What is the normal range for Free calcium?
What is the normal range for Free calcium?
The normal range for free calcium in the blood varies depending on age and laboratory methods. For individuals over 12 days old, the reference interval is typically between 1.18 and 1.32 mmol/L. For newborns, values can be slightly higher, for example, between 1.17 and 1.37 mmol/L within the first 24 hours. It is important to note that reference intervals can vary between laboratories due to different measurement methods and reference populations. Free calcium is the biologically active form of calcium and plays a crucial role in muscle function, nerve conduction, and heart activity. Being close to the limit values can indicate incipient imbalances that may require further investigation.
What does a low level mean?
A low level of free calcium, also called hypocalcemia, can lead to symptoms such as tingling and numbness in the fingers, hands, or around the lips, muscle cramps, and in severe cases, heart rhythm disturbances. Causes can include vitamin D deficiency, kidney failure, hypoparathyroidism, or certain types of medication. Particularly vulnerable groups are individuals with chronic diseases, poor nutrition, or after thyroid surgery. If symptoms occur, a doctor should be consulted to measure calcium and vitamin D levels. Treatment may include calcium and vitamin D supplements as well as treatment of the underlying cause.
What does a high level mean?
A high level of free calcium, known as hypercalcemia, can cause symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, nausea, constipation, and in severe cases, confusion or coma. Common causes include overactivity of the parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism), certain cancers, or excessive intake of calcium or vitamin D. If you have symptoms or are found to have elevated calcium, you should seek medical attention. Treatment depends on the cause and may include fluid therapy, medication, or surgery. It is important to seek urgent medical attention for signs of serious complications such as kidney failure or heart problems.
Get your Free calcium level tested
At Celto, you can order a Free calcium blood test directly online – without a referral from your doctor and without long waiting times. We have over 34 blood collection sites at public hospitals across Denmark, and your samples are analyzed at the same accredited laboratories used by the public healthcare system. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk, just like all other blood tests from the public system.
How it works
When you order a blood test from Celto, you choose which markers you want to have tested – no doctor's referral necessary. After your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to our booking system, where you choose a time and place. The blood test itself is taken by authorized healthcare professionals and typically only takes a few minutes.
Where you can get tested
Celto has over 34 blood collection sites at public hospitals and clinics across Denmark. You choose the location that suits you best among our partners, and there are typically available times within a few days. Find your nearest blood collection site →
How to get your results
Your blood samples are analyzed at the same laboratories used by your own doctor and the rest of the healthcare system, precisely the same quality and the same tests. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk within a few business days, and Celto will also send an easy-to-understand review of your values so you know what the numbers mean.