The Symptoms Of Hypocalcemia: A Silent Disease
Hypocalcemia is a condition that mainly affects women. This condition is caused by a lack of calcium in the blood and causes more symptoms than osteoporosis.
The symptoms of hypocalcemia include a tingling sensation in the arms and legs, problems with concentration, muscle pain and even heart rhythm disturbances.
But the worst part about the condition is that it affects quality of life for no apparent reason. That’s why we want to show you a few important aspects that you should be aware of.
Remember that if you have any doubts or experience discomfort, you should consult a doctor. This condition can be easily diagnosed with a blood test.
Let’s look at the facts.
What is hypocalcemia?
Hypocalcemia is an imbalance in an essential part of the blood: calcium.
Calcium is necessary for more than strong teeth and bones. This mineral is used in processes throughout the body that are responsible for our health and well-being.
- Calcium helps certain hormones perform their functions in the kidneys and intestines.
- This mineral is important for the proper clotting of the blood.
- Calcium is also important for sending nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
- It also contributes to the activation of a number of enzymes in the body.
- It is used in cell membranes to promote the exchange of oxygen and nutrients.
- This mineral also promotes the absorption of important vitamins, such as B12.
The Symptoms of Hypocalcemia
- Stress and anxiety. You may have trouble fulfilling your day-to-day responsibilities due to difficulty concentrating, confusion, or being upset…
- Another common symptom is muscle tingling. It can happen on the face or limbs. It almost feels like you have bugs under your skin.
- Fatigue, muscle cramps, numbness in the hands.
- Dental problems, such as weak teeth.
- Fragile hair, which can lead to alopecia.
- Symptoms of hypocalcemia can also show up in the skin, especially in the form of dry skin, eczema, and dermatitis.
- The nails may also become weaker.
What Causes Hypocalcemia?
One of the most common causes of hypocalcemia is a lack of vitamin D. For example, a lack of this mineral will affect the parathyroid gland and your body will have a hard time regulating the digestion of calcium.
There are many different causes that only an expert can diagnose:
- Chronic renal failure
- Magnesium deficiency
- Certain medications (diuretics, hormone treatments, and antibiotics) can also cause problems with calcium synthesis in the body.
- Ingesting too much caffeine or carbonated drinks also increases your risk.
How is hypocalcemia treated?
The treatment for hypocalcemia is something that only your doctor can determine after assessing your individual situation.
This condition is usually treated orally with calcium and vitamin D supplements. The goal is to keep the calcium level normal. The problem with a calcium supplement is that it can lead to kidney stones if you use it too much.
Can hypocalcemia be prevented?
For starters, we need to make something clear: never take calcium supplements without medical supervision. Only your doctor can decide if you need a calcium supplement. Self-diagnosis and treatment is dangerous and not recommended.
Since we can’t know what our calcium level is like without a doctor’s test, we can’t risk diagnosing low calcium ourselves and then improve it by taking a supplement. It’s always best to see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment that’s right for you.
- We also need to make it clear that milk is not the only source of calcium. This mineral is also found in legumes such as lentils and chickpeas. Eggs, nuts and broccoli are other foods that contain sufficient calcium.
- It is about healthy eating, a diet that is balanced and that contains important nutrients.
- To prevent hypocalcaemia, it is important that you get enough vitamin D and magnesium.
- Don’t forget to exercise. Walking in the sun will help your body store vitamin D.
Again, always consult your doctor if you experience the symptoms of hypocalcemia. A doctor will let you know if you need a supplement.
Also remember to take good care of the health of your thyroid, which plays an important role in your body’s use of calcium.