Tetany

Tetany is a medical condition characterized by involuntary contraction of muscles, which may be caused by various conditions such as low levels of calcium in the blood and alkalosis. The term is derived from the effect of the bacterial toxin produced in tetanus, which causes a spastic state of the muscles. The condition is typically associated with hypocalcemia and hyperexcitability of the nerves and muscles.

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Causes

Tetany can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Hypocalcemia: This is the most common cause of tetany. It occurs when there is a low level of calcium in the blood. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, or problems with the parathyroid glands.

• Alkalosis: This is a condition where the body's pH level is higher than normal. This can cause the nerves to become more excitable, leading to muscle spasms.

• Hypomagnesemia: This is a condition where there is a low level of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is important for nerve and muscle function, and a deficiency can lead to tetany.

• Hyperventilation: Rapid breathing can cause a drop in the level of carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to alkalosis and tetany.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tetany can vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include:

• Muscle cramps or spasms, particularly in the hands and feet
• Tingling or numbness in the face or extremities
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Difficulty swallowing
• Rapid heartbeat

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of tetany typically involves a physical examination and a series of tests to determine the levels of calcium, magnesium, and other electrolytes in the blood. A doctor may also perform a Trousseau's sign or Chvostek's sign test to check for nerve hyperexcitability.

Treatment

Treatment for tetany typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve taking supplements to increase the levels of calcium or magnesium in the blood, or treating any underlying conditions that may be causing the imbalance.

See also

• Hypocalcemia
• Alkalosis
• Hypomagnesemia
• Hyperventilation

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