Diseases
hypocalcemia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Hypocalcemia is a treatable condition that happens when the levels of calcium in the blood are too low. Many different health conditions can cause hypocalcemia, and it's often caused by abnormal levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) or vitamin D in the body
Symptoms
- confusion or memory loss
- muscle spasms
- numbness and tingling in the hands, feet, and face
- weak and brittle nails
- easy fracturing of the bones
Causes
- poor calcium intake over a long period of time, especially in childhood
- medications that may decrease calcium absorption
- renal failure
Risk factors
- vitamin d deficiency
- hypoparathyroidism
- certain medications: bisphosphonates, corticosteroids, rifampin, calcitonin, etc
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- blood test
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is hypocalcemia?
Hypocalcemia is a treatable condition that happens when the levels of calcium in the blood are too low. Many different health conditions can cause hypocalcemia, and it's often caused by abnormal levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) or vitamin D in the body
What are the symptoms of hypocalcemia?
confusion or memory loss, muscle spasms, numbness and tingling in the hands, feet, and face, weak and brittle nails, easy fracturing of the bones
What causes hypocalcemia?
poor calcium intake over a long period of time, especially in childhood; medications that may decrease calcium absorption; renal failure
Which medicines are used for hypocalcemia?
calcium, dihydrotachysterol
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