Having low calcium levels in the body can result in a condition medically known as hypocalcemia. It happens when your serum calcium is below the normal level of 8.2 mg/dL and level of ionized calcium is below 4.4 mg/dL. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the side effects of low calcium levels in the blood may vary from a simple electrolyte abnormality without exhibiting symptoms to a life-threatening disorder. It depends on the severity, pace and duration of the development of hypocalcemia. Low calcium levels, if symptomatic, can have several side effects on the body.
Spasms, Numbness, Tingling
One of the most common side effects of hypocalcemia, as stated by Endotext.com, is increased neuromuscular irritability. The patient may experience spasms, numbness and tingling sensations on the fingers and toes. Endotext.com further says that spontaneous muscle cramps can progress into tetany, which is the prolonged contraction of the muscles of the body. This can even affect the body's respiratory muscles, making this condition life-threatening.
There are also two clinical signs used by physicians that indicate increased neuromuscular irritability. One is Chvostek sign, defined by Endotext.com as the contraction of the facial muscles once tapped. Another is Trosseau sign, which is the carpal spasm that patients with hypocalcemia experience while their blood pressures are being taken. This is because inflating the cuff can cause ischemia or temporary loss of oxygen for the muscles involved. As a result, nerves become more irritable, producing Trosseau sign.
Heart Failure and Hypotension
The Cleveland Clinic says hypocalcemia can affect the cardiovascular system, resulting in congestive heart failure and hypotension. Also, electrocardiogram tracings will show a prolonged QT interval, which can be a risk factor for possible arrhythmias.
Dementia, Anxiety, Depression, Seizures
Low calcium levels can also affect the brain and cause a series of psychological and neurological symptoms, according to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Examples of these side effects include dementia in adults, mental retardation in children, anxiety, depression, and all types of seizures. There is also the presence of increased intracranial pressure, as stated by Endotext.com. This is most especially pronounced in patients with chronic hypocalcemia.
Brittle Nails, Dry Skin, Coarse Hair
The skin can also be affected by low calcium changes, according to Endotext.com. You can get brittle nails, dry skin and coarse hair. Children with this disorder can also have abnormalities of the teeth. Studies have shown that normal calcium levels can remedy these side effects.
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