DEAR DR. ROACH: I have been diagnosed with calcium buildup in my blood vessels. I previously underwent surgery on my legs, where the surgeon had to drill through calcium deposits to restore blood flow. Recently, I’ve been informed that there is calcium accumulation on the aortic valve I had replaced four years ago.
I also have prostate cancer and am currently taking Orgovyx. Additionally, my doctor has advised me to consume 1,000 mg of calcium daily, as the medication can weaken my bones. What’s your perspective on this? Do calcium supplements contribute more to calcium buildup than they help my bones? If I stop taking the calcium supplement, will it halt the calcium accumulation in my vascular system? — W.H.
ANSWER: There is some evidence suggesting that calcium supplements may increase the likelihood of calcium deposits in blood vessels; however, the results are inconsistent. Some robust studies indicate that supplements do not carry a significant risk.
Without a clear consensus, I can’t definitively state whether discontinuing the calcium supplement would safeguard your arteries. However, stopping the supplements is unlikely to entirely halt calcium buildup, as this process occurs naturally in many individuals who do not take calcium supplements. That said, it may help slow it down.
It is well-established that calcium is vital for bone health. Orgovyx works by inhibiting testosterone production. While this is essential for limiting prostate cancer cell growth, it also contributes to bone weakening. Fortunately, there are alternative treatments available to protect your bones, such as Fosamax or Prolia, especially if they have already been compromised.
Even while on a medication that reduces mineral loss from bones, calcium remains important. Dietary calcium does not seem to pose the same risk for vascular calcium buildup as supplements do.
Obtaining sufficient calcium through diet is straightforward. Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, almonds, lentils, leafy green vegetables, and small fish eaten with their bones, such as canned sardines and salmon. This dietary approach provides the benefits of calcium without the potential risks associated with supplements on vascular health.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I came across your recent column discussing the meningococcal vaccine. If someone has already had meningitis, are they at a lower risk of contracting it again in the future? — S.G.
ANSWER: The meninges are the protective membranes surrounding the brain, and their inflammation is referred to as meningitis. While meningitis can arise from various causes, we generally refer to infections when discussing this condition.
The primary bacterial causes of meningitis differ significantly depending on the person’s age. In adolescents and young adults, Neisseria meningitidis—targeted by the meningitis vaccine—is the most common culprit. For middle-aged and older adults, Streptococcus pneumoniae, known for causing pneumonia, is a more frequent cause and is addressed by pneumonia vaccines like PCV20 or PCV21. There are also other less common bacteria involved, such as Staphylococcus and Listeria.
You are correct to assume that some infections may confer immunity against future occurrences, but unfortunately, the myriad causes of meningitis mean that having had it once does not guarantee protection from future infections. In fact, individuals who have experienced meningitis are often at a heightened risk of reoccurrence due to underlying risk factors.
When it comes to Neisseria meningitidis, those who have had this type of meningitis face more than a 50-fold increased risk of experiencing it again. People may also have immune deficiencies or anatomical abnormalities that elevate their likelihood of recurrent infections.
For individuals who have had meningitis, taking preventive measures is crucial, such as getting vaccinated. If someone has an anatomical issue—like a cerebrospinal fluid leak—it is essential to address it as soon as possible. Moreover, all adults are generally advised to receive the pneumonia vaccine, primarily to prevent pneumonia, but it also lowers the risk of other pneumococcal diseases, including meningitis.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters but aims to incorporate them into the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu or send mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803.
(c) 2022 North America Syndicate Inc.
All Rights Reserved
