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Hypocalcemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
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Hypocalcemia is a condition in which there are lower-than-average levels of calcium in the liquid part of the blood, or the plasma.
Please discuss with your doctor for further information.
Some people don’t have any symptoms or signs of hypocalcemia. As it affects the nervous system, babies with the condition may twitch or tremor. Adults who do have symptoms may experience:
The symptoms of severe hypocalcemia are:
The long-term symptoms of hypocalcemia include:
There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.
If you have any signs or symptoms listed above or have any questions, please consult with your doctor. Everyone’s body acts differently. It is always best to discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.
The most common cause of hypocalcemia is hypoparathyroidism, which occurs when the body secretes a less-than-average amount of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Low PTH levels lead to low calcium levels in your body. Hypoparathyroidism can be inherited, or it can be the result of surgical removal of the thyroid gland or cancer of the head and neck.
Other causes of hypocalcemia include:
People with a vitamin D or magnesium deficiency are at risk of hypocalcemia. Other risk factors include:
Newborn babies are at risk because their bodies aren’t fully developed. This is especially true for children born to diabetic mothers.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.
The first step in diagnosis is a blood test to determine your calcium levels. Your doctor may also use mental and physical exams to test for signs of hypocalcemia. A physical exam may include a study of your:
A mental exam may include tests for:
Your doctor may also test for Chvostek’s and Trousseau’s signs, which are both linked to hypocalcemia. Chvostek’s sign is a twitching response when a set of facial nerves is tapped.
Trousseau’s sign is a spasm in the hands or feet that comes from ischemia, or a restriction in blood supply to tissues. Twitching or spasms are considered positive responses to these tests and suggest neuromuscular excitability due to hypocalcemia.
Some cases of hypocalcemia go away without treatment. Some cases of hypocalcemia are severe and can even be life-threatening. If you have an acute case, your doctor will most likely give you calcium through your vein, or intravenously.
The following lifestyles and home remedies might help you cope with hypocalcemia:
Many hypocalcemia cases are easily treated with a dietary change. Taking calcium, vitamin D, or magnesium supplements, or eating foods with these can help treat it.
Spending time in the sun will increase your vitamin D levels. The amount of sun needed is different for everyone. Be sure to use sunscreen for protection if you’re in the sun for a long time. Your doctor may recommend a calcium-rich diet plan to help treat it as well.
If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you. Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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