Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia (pronounced: hypo-kal-see-mee-uh) is a medical condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood.

Etymology

The term "Hypocalcemia" is derived from the Greek words 'hypo' meaning 'under', 'calci' referring to 'calcium', and 'emia' meaning 'condition of the blood'.

Definition

Hypocalcemia is a condition where there is not enough calcium in the blood. Calcium is a mineral that is important for many bodily functions, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. When the level of calcium in the blood is too low, it can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hypocalcemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps
• Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, and face
• Confusion or memory loss
• Depression
• Hallucinations

Causes

Hypocalcemia can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Vitamin D deficiency
• Kidney disease
• Parathyroid disease
• Certain medications
• Malnutrition

Treatment

Treatment for hypocalcemia typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may include taking calcium supplements, increasing dietary intake of calcium, or treating any underlying diseases or conditions that are causing the low calcium levels.

Related Terms

• Hypercalcemia: A condition characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood.
• Calcium: A mineral that is important for many bodily functions.
• Parathyroid hormone: A hormone that regulates calcium levels in the blood.

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Hypocalcemia
• Wikipedia's article - Hypocalcemia

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