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Hypocalcemia: When Your Calcium Levels Drop Too Low
Published: Sep 12, 2023
Hypocalcemia is a condition where blood calcium levels are lower than normal. It can cause various symptoms and may signal underlying health issues.
What Causes Low Calcium?
There are several reasons your calcium might be low. The most common causes are problems with the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium, or vitamin D deficiency. Other causes can include certain medications, kidney problems, or rare genetic conditions. Sometimes, low calcium can occur after thyroid or neck surgery.
Symptoms to Watch For
Mild hypocalcemia may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, more severe cases can lead to muscle cramps, tingling in the fingers and toes, or even seizures. Some people may experience mood changes, confusion, or heart rhythm abnormalities. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor.
Diagnosing the Problem
To diagnose hypocalcemia, doctors will typically order a blood test to check your calcium levels. They may also test your parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, as this can help determine the underlying cause. Additional tests might include checking vitamin D levels or kidney function. In some cases, imaging tests may be needed to look at the parathyroid glands.
Treatment Options
Treatment for hypocalcemia depends on its cause and severity. For mild cases, dietary changes or calcium supplements might be enough. More severe cases may require intravenous calcium. If the cause is a parathyroid problem, medication or surgery might be necessary. Addressing any underlying conditions, such as vitamin D deficiency or kidney disease, is also crucial for long-term management.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's relatively common, especially in hospitalized patients.
Not usually, as there's often an underlying medical cause.
It can be if left untreated, potentially leading to severe complications.
Yes, certain drugs like bisphosphonates can lower calcium levels.
They can fluctuate rapidly, especially during medical treatments.
The Bottom Line
While hypocalcemia can be serious, it's usually treatable once the underlying cause is identified.
References
- Goltzman D, Cole DEC. Hypoparathyroidism. In: Primer on the Metabolic Bone Diseases and Disorders of Bone Metabolism, 6th ed, Favus MJ (Ed), American Society of Bone and Mineral Research, Washington DC 2006. p.216.
- Hannan FM, Thakker RV. Investigating hypocalcaemia. BMJ 2013; 346:f2213.
- Zivin JR, Gooley T, Zager RA, Ryan MJ. Hypocalcemia: a pervasive metabolic abnormality in the critically ill. Am J Kidney Dis 2001; 37:689.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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