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hypocalcemia

hypocalcemia is an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood. it may be caused by vitamin d deficiency, kidney failure, acute pancreatitis, or insufficient magnesium and protein in the blood.

other causes of hypocalcemia include low levels of parathyroid hormone (hypoparathyroidism), malnutrition, and parathyroid surgery.

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, magnesium, and vitamin d are given to restore the blood level to normal.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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