What is calcium?

Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body, the vast bulk of it being found in the bones and teeth. A small amount of calcium circulates in the bloodstream where it has a role in preventing blood clots, regulating muscle contractions, and contributing to healthy communication between the brain and other parts of the body. Sources of dietary calcium include dairy products, green leafy vegetables, soya, tofu, nuts, bread and certain types of fish.

Symptoms of calcium deficiency (hypocalcaemia) can include muscle cramps, stomach pains, fatigue, loss of appetite, numbness or tingling in the fingers and dermatitis. If left untreated, the condition can lead to rickets in children or osteoporosis in adults.

There are also circumstances in which your levels of calcium could be above normal (hypercalcaemia) causing symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, tiredness, increased thirst, loss of appetite, diarrhoea and other symptoms.

Why should I consider a Calcium Test?

If you are experiencing symptoms that may suggest either too much or too little calcium in your body or are concerned about your dietary intake of this essential mineral, then a Better2Know’s calcium home test will give a quick and accurate indication of your status.

What is the Better2Know home testing process?

Your Calcium Test home collection kit uses a small blood sample, which is collected using a finger prick lancet. Your plainly packaged home testing kit will contain three lancets, a gold-topped blood collection tube, wipes and a pathology form. Better2Know will also include a postage-paid envelope, so you can send your sample directly to our accredited laboratory in the UK. One of our trained Patient Services Executives will also send you detailed sample collection instructions. Please follow these instructions carefully.

When will my home testing kit arrive?

If you order before 4 pm, Monday to Friday your kit will be dispatched the same day in the first class post. If you would prefer a tracked service please choose special delivery at checkout.

How will I receive my test results?

The results of your home Calcium Test will be available the same working day from the receipt of your sample at our fully certified, UK laboratory. You can view your results online at any time using the Better2Know website’s secure patient area. Simply log in with the details our Patient Services team will provide upon processing your order. A Better2Know advisor will contact you personally to report your confidential results.

What should I do with my results?

The results of your home test will determine the levels of calcium in your system. If your calcium levels are abnormal it is important to seek medical advice. Your doctor will suggest the most appropriate course of treatment for your condition. Better2Know can arrange a doctor’s consultation following the receipt of your results. This private medical professional will go through your results in more detail and discuss the most appropriate treatment for you.

How can I order my home test?

To order your home test today, please contact Better2Know’s dedicated Patient Services team on the number displayed above. They will answer your queries and process your order. In addition, Better2Know's health testing services are available at private clinics throughout the UK. You can also order the Better2Know calcium home test online now by selecting the blue, ‘Add to Basket’ button and proceed to our secure checkout page.