What symptom is commonly associated with hypercalcemia?

Hypercalcemia is a condition characterized by elevated levels of calcium in the blood. One of the hallmark symptoms associated with hypercalcemia is changes in mental status, which can manifest as stupor and coma. This occurs because high levels of calcium can interfere with normal brain function, leading to neurological symptoms.

In individuals with hypercalcemia, the excess calcium can depress the central nervous system, leading to lethargy and, in severe cases, stupor or coma. This is significant because it highlights the systemic effects of hypercalcemia, which can impact various bodily functions, particularly those involving the nervous system.

While other symptoms associated with hypercalcemia can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and renal issues, the specific association with mental status changes such as stupor and coma underscores the severity of untreated hypercalcemia. Understanding this symptom is critical in the context of patient assessment and management in a critical care setting.