Muscle spasms are involuntary contractions of the muscle fibers. Muscle spasms usually occur suddenly and dissipate quickly, but they can cause a significant amount of pain. Most people experience at least one muscle spasm at some point. Uncontrollable muscle spasms can be a result of imbalances in the body or caused by infectious organisms.
Hyponatremia
Sodium is an electrolyte in the body that helps to maintain fluid balance in the cells and the areas surrounding the cells. Sodium also aids in blood pressure regulation and normal functioning of the nerves and muscles. According to MayoClinic.com, normal sodium levels in the body should be between 136 to 145 mEq/L. Hyponatremia is a condition in which the sodium levels in the body drop to under 135 mEq/L, which allows the fluid levels in the body to rise. This causes swelling of the tissues as well as nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, fatigue, appetite loss, restlessness, weakness, seizures and uncontrollable muscle spasms and cramps. Possible causes of hyponatremia include excessive water consumption during exercise, adrenal gland insufficiency, underactive thyroid, the use of diuretics, certain medications, dehydration and kidney problems. Treatment for hyponatremia focuses on correcting the underlying cause. Severe cases may require intravenous sodium solutions and hormone therapy, according to MayoClinic.com.
Tetanus
Tetanus is a nervous system infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which lives in the soil. Tetanus occurs when the spores of the bacterium enter the body through an open wound or sore and release a poison that spreads throughout the body. The poison blocks nerve signals in the central nervous system, which causes severe and uncontrollable muscle spasms. Medline Plus notes that muscle spasms can be so intense that they cause tears in the muscles. Other symptoms of tetanus include drooling, increased sweating, fever, irritability, difficulty swallowing and inability to control urination. Tetanus is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment. Treatment consists of antibiotics, medications that reverse the action of the poison, muscle relaxants and sedatives. Surgery and breathing support may also be necessary.
Hypocalcemia
Calcium is an important mineral that contributes to bone health, aids in muscle contraction and regulates heart rhythm. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library notes that 99 percent of the calcium in the body is stored in the bones. The remaining 1 percent is found in the blood and muscles. Hypocalcemia is a condition that occurs when calcium levels in the blood fall below normal. Possible causes of hypocalcemia include underactive parathyroid glands, vitamin D deficiency, abnormal kidney function, inadequate consumption of calcium and certain medications. When calcium levels fall too low, it disrupts normal body functioning and can cause confusion, memory loss, depression, tingling in the lips, fingers and feet, muscle aches, abnormal heart rhythms and uncontrollable muscle spasms. Hypocalcemia can be treated with oral or intravenous supplementation of calcium. Underlying causes of the hypocalcemia will also be treated.
