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Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia is an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood. It may be caused by low levels of parathyroid hormone (hypoparathyroidism). Other causes of hypocalcemia include vitamin D deficiency, kidney failure, acute pancreatitis, or insufficient magnesium and protein in the blood.

Symptoms often do not occur with mild hypocalcemia. As hypocalcemia becomes more severe, the following symptoms may develop:

  • Abnormal heart rhythms
  • Muscle cramps, muscle twitching, or seizures
  • Inability to detect touch accompanied by burning, pricking, tickling, or tingling sensation (paresthesia) of the hands, feet, lips, and tongue

Hypocalcemia is treated by determining and treating the cause of the low blood calcium. Oral or intravenous calcium is given to restore the blood level to normal.

Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Martin Gabica, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Philip Belitsky, MD, FRCSC
- Urology
Last Updated October 25, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 25, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.