Low calcium can interfere with key body functions, particularly those involving the nervous system and bones. It is present in foods such as yogurt, milk, cheese, spinach, tofu, and broccoli.
Low calcium occurs when the level of calcium in the blood falls below the normal range, leading to hypocalcemia. This can cause symptoms that vary from mild to severe.
Low calcium levels can result from not eating enough calcium-rich foods, vitamin D deficiency, or problems absorbing calcium. Keeping calcium within a healthy range is important for overall health.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of low calcium are:
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Cramps, especially in the legs.
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Tingling in the hands, feet, and face.
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Memory problems and confusion.
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Hallucinations.
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Greater bone fragility, with a higher risk of fractures.
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Irritability, nervousness, and anxiety.
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High blood pressure.
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Tooth decay and dental changes.
When hypocalcemia is mild, symptoms usually are not noticeable. Symptoms tend to appear when the level of calcium circulating in the blood becomes very low.
In more severe cases, calcium deficiency can cause seizures, arrhythmia, congestive heart failure, laryngospasm, and rigidity.
Confirming a diagnosis
A healthcare provider diagnoses low calcium by assessing any signs and symptoms and ordering a blood test to measure blood calcium levels. Hypocalcemia is usually diagnosed when the calcium level is below 8.8 mg/dL.
A bone imaging test called bone densitometry may also be recommended to identify bone changes such as osteomalacia or rickets.
The provider may also order other tests to help identify the cause of low calcium, such as tests for magnesium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone (PTH), or vitamin D.
Possible causes
The main causes of low calcium are:
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Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption in the intestines, and low levels of this vitamin can reduce absorption and lead to hypocalcemia.
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Parathyroid gland disorders: The parathyroid glands are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the body. If these glands produce too much or too little parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium levels can become unbalanced, resulting in hypocalcemia.
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Low intake of calcium-rich foods: Strict vegetarian diets or diets that are not well balanced can limit the intake of calcium-rich foods, leading to a deficiency of this mineral.
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Kidney failure: The kidneys play an important role in regulating calcium levels in the body. Kidney failure can lead to a buildup of phosphate in the blood, which negatively affects calcium levels.
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Problems with intestinal absorption: Some conditions, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and bariatric surgery, can interfere with proper calcium absorption in the intestine, causing a deficiency of this mineral.
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Magnesium deficiency: Magnesium is an essential mineral for the proper absorption and metabolism of calcium.
In addition, the use of some medications, such as diuretics, anticonvulsants, or bisphosphonates, as well as conditions such as acute pancreatitis and hypothyroidism, can also lead to calcium deficiency in the body.
Treatment options
Treatment for low calcium depends on the cause and should be guided by a healthcare provider. In general, oral calcium supplements may be recommended.
In more severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend hospitalization so calcium can be given intravenously (through an IV).
It is important to eat more calcium-rich foods, such as yogurt, milk, cheese, spinach, tofu, and broccoli, as part of a varied and balanced diet.
To help raise vitamin D levels, which in turn supports higher calcium levels in the blood, it is recommended to get about 15 minutes of daily sun exposure on the skin without sunscreen. Vitamin D can also be taken as a dietary supplement.