Hypocalcemia: Care Instructions

Overview

Hypocalcemia means that the level of calcium in your blood is lower than it should be.

Your doctor may have done tests to check your calcium levels because you had certain symptoms. These include tingling or twitching of your muscles. Your doctor may do more tests to find out why your calcium is low and to see how well your kidneys and other organs are working. Your doctor will also want to see how well your parathyroid gland is working. This gland controls calcium levels in your blood.

You may have this problem because you have kidney disease. Or your body may not be absorbing the calcium as it should.

You may be able to get your calcium up to a safe level by taking supplements. If your levels are very low, your doctor may give you a calcium shot, possibly along with magnesium. You will probably also be given vitamin D, because you need it to absorb calcium.

After your doctor has your calcium levels up, be sure to get plenty of calcium in your diet. If you have a kidney or parathyroid problem, you may need to keep taking extra calcium.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Eat foods rich in calcium. These include yogurt, cheese, milk, and dark green vegetables. This is the best way to get the calcium you need. You can get vitamin D from eggs, fatty fish, cereal, and milk.
• Talk to your doctor about taking a calcium plus vitamin D supplement.
• Stay active. Regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, can help keep your bones strong. It can also improve your overall health.
• Spend a small amount of time outside in the sun without sunscreen. The sun helps your body make vitamin D. Talk to your doctor first if you have had skin cancer or you are at high risk for skin cancer.