What is Calcium?

Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body, the majority of it is found in bones and teeth. Small amounts of calcium circulate in the bloodstream preventing blood clots, regulating muscle activity and aiding in communication between the body and brain. Calcium can be found in many different areas of our diet such as:

• green leafy vegetables
• dairy products
• nuts
• bread
• tofu
• some types of fish
• soya

What are the symptoms of not having enough Calcium?

Calcium deficiency, also known as Hypocalcaemia, can be indicated with symptoms such as:

• stomach pains
• fatigue
• muscle cramps
• numbness or tingling in the fingers
• dermatitis
• loss of appetite

If left untreated, the condition can lead to rickets in children or osteoporosis in adults.

What are the symptoms of having too much Calcium?

High levels of calcium, or Hypercalcaemia, can be indicated with symptoms such as:

• nausea
• increased thirst
• stomach pain
• tiredness
• diarrhoea
• loss of appetite

Why should I consider a Calcium Test?

If you believe that you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or you are interested or concerned about your current dietary intake of calcium, Better2Know’s calcium home test will provide you with a quick and accurate analysis of your calcium status.

What is the Better2Know home testing process?

Your Calcium home test 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, a plaster and a pathology form. Your kit will also include a postage-paid envelope to our laboratory, enabling you to send your sample directly to our accredited laboratory in Ireland. Instructions on how to perform your test will be provided with your home sample collection kit. However our trained Patient Services team are always available should you require further help.

When will my home testing kit arrive?

If you order before 4 pm, Monday to Friday your kit will be dispatched the same day. Your kit will be sent in plain packaging. You will receive your kit in 2 to 4 days. Delivery times may vary depending on where you live. Please call us if you would like to arrange a faster delivery for an extra fee.

How will I receive my test results?

Your Calcium Home test results will be available the same working day from the receipt of your sample at our fully certified laboratory. You can view your results online at any time using the Better2Know website’s secure patient area. Simply log in using the details emailed to you when placing your order. A Better2Know advisor will contact you personally to report your 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. You can take your Better2Know results to your own doctor, or 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 you Better2Know calcium home test online now, select the blue, ‘Add to Basket’ button and proceed to our secure checkout page .