Calcium: Symptoms of Deficiency

Hypocalcemia (calcium deficiency) may be associated with the following symptoms.

  • Osteomalacia
  • Cataract
  • Trophic skin disorders
  • Hyperreflexia
  • Tetany
  • Cerebral seizures

A low serum calcium level likely indicates abnormal parathyroid function and is rarely due to inadequate calcium intake, as the skeleton acts as a large calcium reserve store, helping to maintain serum calcium levels within the normal range. The main causes of low serum calcium levels are chronic renal failure and vitamin D deficiency.

Low serum magnesium levels, mainly found in cases of severe alcoholism, can also promote low serum calcium levels. Magnesium deficiency causes a decrease in the sensitivity of osteoclasts to the hormone PTH. Muscle spasms occur, which – unlike epileptic spasms – take place while the patient is fully conscious. Transient paralysis sometimes develops, which may affect the swallowing and breathing muscles. Prolonged convulsions – also called “tetany” – result in the so-called “pawing” of the hands, which is typical of hypocalcemia (calcium deficiency).