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Hypocalcemia

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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.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.