Hypocalcemia, or low blood calcium levels, can cause a wide range of problems and symptoms. Because calcium is essential for so many body processes, it can cause serious problems when levels fall below the recommended range of 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL.Muscle cramps are one of the main signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia. This happens as a result of the necessity of calcium for muscular contraction. Muscle cramps and spasms can result in pain and discomfort when levels are low. Furthermore, due to calcium's involvement in nerve function, people may feel paresthesia, or tingling sensations in their extremities. Furthermore, low calcium levels can affect the heart, resulting in an arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. Lack of calcium can cause palpitations, chest pain, or even fainting episodes since the heart needs it to contract correctly. Medical treatment must be given right once to these heart symptoms.Beyond problems with the heart and muscles, hypocalcemia can impact bone health. Calcium has a crucial role in the strength and density of bones. Long-term deficiency in calcium can cause diseases such as osteoporosis, which makes bones brittle and more prone to breaking. Seizures may result from hypocalcemia in extreme situations. Low calcium levels can cause uncontrolled neuronal firing in the brain, which can cause seizures since calcium helps regulate electrical impulses in the brain. Since these seizures may be fatal, immediate medical attention is needed.Hypocalcemia is more common in some populations. Lower amounts of calcium may result from decreased calcium metabolism in people with chronic renal disease. Furthermore, people who suffer from malabsorption illnesses such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease may find it difficult to absorb enough calcium from their diet, which puts them at risk for hypocalcemia. The underlying cause and severity of low blood calcium levels determine the course of treatment. Intravenous calcium may be used to rapidly boost levels in acute situations. Since vitamin D facilitates calcium absorption, long-term care frequently entails taking supplements of both calcium and D. Changing one's diet to include more dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods can also assist improve consumption of calcium.For those who are at risk, routine calcium level monitoring is essential since it enables prompt management to avoid consequences. Because hypocalcemia can have a major negative impact on quality of life and health, it is a serious disorder that needs to be treated medically. It affects the heart, muscles, bones, and neurological system.
