Hypocalcemia is a serious medical problem caused by low blood levels of calcium. There are different treatment approaches to hypocalcemia, depending on the blood levels of calcium and the severity of the patient's symptoms. Hypocalcemia should be treated by a trained medical professional; talk to your doctor before taking calcium supplements.
Understanding Hypocalcemia
Calcium is a mineral needed in small amounts for your body to function properly. It has a role in strong bones and teeth. Lack of calcium can leave your bones weak and prone to fracture. Calcium is also important for the function of your muscles, heart and nervous system transmission. Without the right amount of calcium, muscles can cramp and the heart muscle can fail.
Mild Hypocalcemia
The severity of your hypocalcemia is based on the amount of calcium in your blood. Mild hypocalcemia is defined as blood calcium levels of between 7.5 and 8.0 mg/dL. For these cases, oral calcium supplements are recommended. The typical dose of calcium used to treat mild hypocalcemia is 1,500 to 2,000 mg of elemental calcium. Different supplements have differing amounts of calcium in them, so your doctor will recommend an appropriate supplement and dose.
Severe Hypocalcemia
If your blood calcium levels are below 7.5 mg/dL, you will need a more rapid increase in your calcium levels. An intravenous calcium solutions may be used. One treatment involves dissolving 1 to 2 g of calcium gluconate in 50 mL of 5 percent dextrose. This solution is then given intravenously over the course of 10 to 20 minutes. Only a medical professional should administer this type of treatment.
Considerations
In some cases, hypocalcemia is caused by a lack of vitamin D, a June 2008 article in the "British Medical Journal" notes. In these cases, you may also need to take a vitamin D supplement; blood tests can determine if your hypocalcemia is due to a lack of vitamin D. Do not take calcium supplements without talking to your doctor, as too much calcium in your blood can be dangerous.
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