Most of the calcium in the body is used to build strong bones and teeth. Only about 1% of calcium circulates in the organs, tissues, and bloodstream. Calcium can form deposits in various tissues of the body, both in specific places and in multiple areas. Sometimes calcium deposits are harmless, but calcium deposits can also be harmful. The two main causes of calcium deposits outside the bones; one is damaged tissue and the other is an excess level of calcium in the body.

When calcium levels in the blood are normal, calcification can be caused by local tissue damage. Tissue damage can be a calcium magnet in damaged tissue. Calcification of the blood vessels is very common and occurs in the damaged tissues of the arteries and is known as atherosclerosis. These damaged areas in the arteries accumulate fat, etc., forming plaque that calcifies over time. The plaques narrow the arteries, which can lead to the formation of a clot that often leads to a heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.

Calcium deposits in the breast are another common type of small-scale tissue damage that leads to calcification. Sometimes calcium deposits in the breast are cancerous, while other times they are benign.

Large-scale tissue damage is related to extensive cell loss, known as tissue necrosis. Necrosis is caused by the death of tissue in a precise area of ​​the body. This dead tissue attracts cells that clean up the dead tissue. This healing process draws calcium to the area of ​​damaged tissue as part of the healing process.

Infections are associated with this type of calcification found in the lungs and heart area and are known as pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the pericardium. Tissue damage along with inflammation can cause tissue calcification. These types of calcium deposits are often found in the tendons of the shoulders, ankles, or knees.

Calcification can also occur from a high level of calcium in the blood. If there is an excess of calcium in the bloodstream, it begins to be deposited in the tissues of the body.

Usually there are no symptoms when calcification of tissues occurs in the body. There are symptoms to watch out for that indicate an excess of calcium in the body. Weakness, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, confusion or drowsiness are some of the symptoms that indicate an excess of calcium in the body. Also be aware of chest pain, joint pain, and muscle aches. Calcification of the tissue is often harmless, but if you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible.