calcification
Calcification is the process where calcium salts build up in body tissues, leading to hardening or formation of deposits. This can occur in various parts of the body, such as bones, where it is normal, or in soft tissues, which can indicate disease. For example, in arteries, calcification can contribute to conditions like atherosclerosis, increasing heart disease risk. The process can result from aging, injury, or inflammation, and while often harmless in bones, abnormal calcification in other tissues may require medical attention. Understanding calcification helps in diagnosing and managing related health issues.
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Calcification is the process where calcium builds up in body tissues, leading to hardening. This can occur normally in bones but may also happen abnormally in soft tissues, like blood vessels or organs. There are two types: dystrophic calcification, which occurs in damaged tissue, and metastatic calcification, which occurs when there is too much calcium in the bloodstream. While calcification can be part of normal healing, excessive or inappropriate calcification can lead to health problems, affecting function and potentially leading to conditions like heart disease or kidney stones. Regular medical check-ups can help monitor calcium levels.