Hypocalcaemia

Hypocalcaemia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood. It is most commonly due to a deficiency in parathyroid hormone (PTH), a hormone that regulates calcium balance in the body.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Hypocalcaemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Hypoparathyroidism: This is the most common cause of hypocalcaemia. It occurs when the parathyroid glands do not produce enough PTH.
Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D is necessary for the body to absorb calcium from the diet. Without enough vitamin D, the body cannot maintain adequate calcium levels.
Certain medications: Some drugs, such as certain diuretics and medications used to treat epilepsy, can lower calcium levels.
Kidney disease: The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining calcium balance. Kidney disease can disrupt this balance, leading to hypocalcaemia.
Pancreatitis: This condition can cause hypocalcaemia by leading to fat necrosis, which binds calcium and lowers its levels in the blood.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of hypocalcaemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

Tingling or numbness in the fingers, toes, and lips
Muscle cramps
Fatigue
Depression
Confusion
Seizures
Cardiac arrhythmias

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Hypocalcaemia is typically diagnosed through a blood test that measures the level of calcium in the blood. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for hypocalcaemia typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may include:

Calcium supplements: These can help to increase the level of calcium in the blood.
Vitamin D supplements: These can help the body to absorb more calcium from the diet.
Parathyroid hormone therapy: This can be used in cases where hypocalcaemia is caused by hypoparathyroidism.

See also[edit | edit source]

Hypocalcaemia Resources
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