Calcium & Hypocalcemia

Calcium is a mineral that is needed by the body in small amounts in order for the body to function properly. Approximately 99 percent of the calcium in the body is located in the bones. The remaining calcium is located in the cells and bloodstream. In order to maintain normal calcium levels in the body, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library recommends a daily calcium intake of 1,000 to 1,500 mg per day.

Functions

One of the most well-known functions of calcium is its role in strong bones and teeth. According to "Nutrition and You" by Joan Salge Blake, calcium contributes 40 percent of the weight of bones. Calcium also plays an important role in muscle contraction, dilation of blood vessels and nervous system transmission. A diet rich in calcium also contributes to heart health and may help lower high blood pressure.

Physiology

Two hormones, called parathyroid hormone and calcitonin, regulate the calcium levels in the blood. When calcium levels in the blood get too high, calcitonin slows down the breakdown of bone calcium to prevent excess calcium from traveling into the bloodstream. When calcium levels in the blood drop too low, the parathyroid glands produce more parathyroid hormone, which moves calcium out of the bone and into the blood. Hypocalcemia is a condition in which the level of calcium in the blood drops too low and cannot be regulated correctly.

Causes

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the most common cause of hypocalcemia is a decreased production of parathyroid hormones by the parathyroid gland. This can be a result of prior surgeries or autoimmune disorders. Other possible causes include certain medications, vitamin D deficiency, pancreatitis and kidney disorders. Occasionally, a lack of sufficient dietary calcium can result in hypocalcemia.

Symptoms

In the beginning stages, hypocalcemia does not usually cause any symptoms. As the calcium levels continue to drop, it can result in confusion, memory loss, delirium, depression and hallucinations, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Severe hypocalcemia can cause tingling in various parts of the body, muscle aches, muscle spasms, breathing difficulties, seizures and abnormal heartbeat.

Treatment

Initial treatment for hypocalcemia consists of oral supplementation of calcium until blood calcium levels are restored. Once calcium in the blood has returned to normal, further treatment depends on the underlying cause of the hypocalcemia. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library also notes that taking vitamin D supplements in addition to calcium can help increase the absorption of calcium in the body.