Hypocalcemia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 9, 2025.
What is hypocalcemia?
Hypocalcemia is a low level of calcium in your blood. Your body may lose too much calcium or not absorb enough from the foods you eat.
What increases my risk for hypocalcemia?
- Lack of vitamin D in your foods or limited exposure to sunlight
- Low hormone levels or a poor immune system
- A medical condition such as Celiac disease, pancreatitis, or kidney disease
- Certain medicines, such as medicines to prevent seizures
What are the signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia?
- Tingling in your hands, feet, or lips
- Muscle spasms or weakness, or facial twitching
- Shaking or loss of body control
- Seizures
- Slow or uneven heartbeat, or lightheadedness
- Anxiety, depression, anger, or confusion
- Seeing or hearing things that are not really there
How is hypocalcemia diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and the medicines you take. Your provider may gently tap on your cheeks to see if your facial muscles twitch. You will also need blood tests to check your calcium, magnesium, and hormone levels.
How is hypocalcemia treated?
Calcium will be given to bring your levels back to normal. This may be given as a pill or IV. You may also need vitamin D or medicines to prevent bone loss.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
How can I manage or prevent hypocalcemia?
- Eat foods rich in calcium. Foods that contain calcium include milk, yogurt, cereals, and cheese. Leafy green vegetables, oranges, canned salmon, shrimp, and peanuts also contain calcium. Do not have caffeine or alcohol. These can slow your body's ability to absorb calcium. You may need to meet with a dietitian to help plan the best meals for you.
- Get safe amounts of sunlight. You may need to expose your skin to more sunlight to get more vitamin D. Ask your healthcare provider how to safely expose yourself to UV light if you need it.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can worsen hypocalcemia. Ask your provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E- cigarettes and smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:
- You have a seizure.
- You see or hear things that are not really there.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You have a slow or uneven heartbeat and feel lightheaded.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have dry skin and brittle nails.
- Your symptoms do not go away, or they get worse.
- You feel depressed, anxious, angry, or confused.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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Further information
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