Symptoms Of Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia is a medical condition in which the blood calcium level has dropped below seven milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Calcium is a necessary component for blood clotting, muscles contracting and building bones. The body cannot make its own calcium so it must get it from food and supplements. Calcium is lost through daily human functions such as sweating, urinating, and defecating. When the blood has too little calcium, the body takes it from the bones, weakening them over time. Hypocalcemia can be caused by eating disorders or lack of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium. Other contributing factors to hypocalcemia include parathyroid, kidney, or pancreatic disorders. Often, symptoms do not present until hypocalcemia is severe. Get to know the major symptoms of this condition now.

Muscle Cramps And Spasms

Muscle cramps and spasms are closely related in that a prolonged spasm is called a cramp. Muscle spasms are rapid, uncontrolled contracting and relaxing of muscle fibers, and they may or may not be painful. When a spasm continues to contract without relaxing, it is considered a cramp. Cramps are usually abrupt and very painful. Though necessary for muscle contraction, low calcium levels will increase action potentials. These are the series of electrical and chemical signals that activate or block nerve or muscle cells. This is what causes cramping and spasms. In severe cases, hypocalcemia can lead to tetany, which is the contraction of muscles without relaxing. It is excruciating and can develop into a life-threatening condition.

Get to know the next symptom of hypocalcemia now.