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Life Tips 02/07/2025 16:49

Mysterious white spots on your skin? They could signal serious health issues

At times, they can lead to significant complications...

Although we may think we know a lot about the human body, there are always things that pop up which most of us, without medical training, struggle to understand.

With the anxiety surrounding serious conditions like cancer and the often unusual symptoms they present, it's easy to panic when something unfamiliar shows up on your body. Whether it’s a rash, an unusual spot, or something that seems out of place, it’s always a good idea to get checked if you're unsure.

One common occurrence is the appearance of small white spots, which many people may overlook or dismiss as nothing more than regular blemishes.

What are calcium deposits?

These little white spots actually have a name – they're called calcium deposits, or calcifications if you want to sound more technical. They happen when calcium, a mineral mostly found in our bones and teeth (as anyone who’s enjoyed a Petit Filous yogurt can attest), accumulates in the body.

Though about 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, some calcium is found in the bloodstream. When it travels to different organs, tissues, or blood vessels, it can cause issues.

What causes calcium deposits?

Calcium deposits can appear all over the body, most often on the skin and teeth. However, they can also be found on the shoulders, breasts, arteries, brain, and kidneys. Several factors can lead to these deposits, and surprisingly, a high-calcium diet isn't typically one of them. Infections, previous surgeries, cancer treatments, and even the natural aging process can contribute to calcium buildup. Disorders related to calcium metabolism or autoimmune diseases can also cause these deposits.

Are calcium deposits dangerous?

While some calcium deposits are harmless, those that form in the brain or heart can lead to serious complications. If they appear on the skin, you likely won't experience symptoms beyond mild discomfort, such as pain or itching. However, deposits in the brain can cause significant problems like trouble walking, tremors, and even cognitive issues like dementia and memory loss.

How are calcium deposits treated?

Treatment for calcium deposits depends largely on where they are located. If they’re simply on the skin and cause no pain or discomfort, you may not need any treatment at all. However, if they appear on areas like your shoulders, doctors may recommend the use of steroids to reduce inflammation. If found on the breasts, a mammogram may be suggested, as calcium deposits in this area could be linked to breast cancer.

For deposits found on the kidneys or arteries, your doctor may suggest dietary changes. Unfortunately, if they form in the brain, there isn't much that can be done to remove them, though treatment may focus on managing symptoms.

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