Understanding Calcium Deficiency Symptoms: Key Signs to Watch For

Hypocalcemia is a condition that indicates too low calcium levels in the body. It can be caused by various health issues such as kidney diseases, parathyroid hormone fluctuations, and vitamin D deficiency. Hypocalcemia can be mild, severe, and even chronic.

Calcium deficiency may affect many parts of the body, causing fragile and thin skin, weak nails, steady hair growth, etc. Calcium also plays a significant role in muscle contractions and neurotransmitter release, so its deficiencies may lead to seizures in otherwise healthy people.

Initially, calcium deficiency may not show any symptoms however, symptoms may appear as the condition progresses.

Some common symptoms of too low levels of calcium in the body include:

• Muscle spasms and cramps
• Tingling sensation or numbness in the face, hands, and feet
• Brittle and weak nails
• Easy fracturing in bones
• Hallucinations
• Memory issues
• Depression

In case you experience the above-mentioned symptoms such as hallucinations, memory loss, numbness, tingling, or seizures, consult your healthcare provider.

Women are more prone to experience calcium deficiencies and develop a variety of symptoms, including:

• Osteoporosis
• Brittle nails
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Dental issues and gum disease
• Bone and muscle problems
• Mood changes and memory issues
• Frequent fractures
• Anxiety and depression
• Skin problems

Some rare but severe symptoms of calcium deficiency include muscle spasms in the throat making it difficult to breathe, muscle stiffness and spasms, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, and congestive heart failure. It is advised not to ignore calcium deficiency symptoms. Untreated deficiency can escalate bone weakness and lead to osteoporosis in women.

It is vital to ensure sufficient calcium consumption at all ages. The most common causes of hypocalcemia are malnutrition (not getting sufficient nutrients) and malabsorption (the body is unable to absorb vitamins and minerals from the diet).

Most people develop calcium deficiency due to aging however, calcium deficiency may be caused by various factors, including:

• Vitamin D deficiency makes it difficult to absorb calcium
• Certain genetic aspects
• Poor calcium intake, particularly in childhood
• Dietary intolerance to calcium-rich foods
• Medications that may reduce calcium absorption
• Hormonal imbalances, especially in females (corticosteroids and phenytoin)
• Medical conditions such as hypoparathyroidism, kidney failure, and pancreatitis)

Inadequate levels of calcium can cause various health concerns, including fractures, muscle cramps, weak bones, osteoporosis in females, and rickets in children.

Calcium Deficiency Diseases:

Osteoporosis: Chronic calcium deficiency can result in osteoporosis. The condition is characterized by brittle, weak bones and an increased risk of fractures even due to minor injuries or falls.

Rickets (in kids): When calcium deficiency and vitamin D deficiency both occur together, results in rickets in children. It is characterized by weak and soft bones in the legs that can deform.

Osteomalacia (in adults): Osteomalacia is similar to rickets; the difference is that it occurs in adults and is characterized by soft bones because of calcium deficiency.

Usually, calcium deficiency can be treated easily. Typically, it involves calcium supplements and calcium-rich foods.

Calcium supplements are accessible in tablet, liquid, and chewable forms. Common calcium supplements include:

• Calcium carbonate comprises most elemental calcium and is inexpensive.
• Calcium citrate is effortlessly absorbed in the body.
• Calcium phosphate is easily absorbed by the body and does not cause constipation.
• Calcium gluconate is promptly absorbed in the body.
• Calcium lactate is better tolerated by people with lactose intolerance.
• Calcium hydroxyapatite is a type of calcium that imitates bone composition.
• Coral calcium is an efficient source of calcium that is derived from coral.
• Calcium ascorbate is a combination of calcium and vitamin C.

Calcium is vital for building and sustaining strong bones and teeth. These supplements can significantly prevent and treat calcium deficiencies. Supplements have been shown to diminish the risk of preeclampsia in pregnant females. The effectiveness of these supplements depends on their absorption and potential side effects. For some people, a calcium-rich diet and supplements may not be sufficient to treat calcium deficiency. In that case, your healthcare provider may recommend regular calcium injections to regulate calcium levels in your body.

For better calcium absorption, it is advised to take these supplements with food, particularly if the supplement contains calcium carbonate. Calcium citrate supplements can be taken with or without a meal. Usually, calcium supplements are recommended to be taken in smaller doses throughout the day for optimal absorption.

Certain medications can interact with calcium supplements and cause negative effects. These medications include beta-blockers (atenolol), antacids containing aluminum, estrogen medications, digoxin, diuretics, and certain antibiotics (tetracyclines). Always consult a doctor before consuming any calcium supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any other medications.

Rich sources of calcium include dairy products, seeds, nuts, leafy greens, and other vegetables. Add milk, yogurt, cheese, almonds, collard greens, figs, broccoli, tofu, and calcium-fortified foods to your diet.

You should consume a healthy diet that is rich in calcium, ensure sufficient intake of vitamin D, and try to engage in regular exercise to sustain healthy calcium levels.

Follow your doctor’s advice regarding calcium deficiency, and take your supplements and medications exactly as recommended.

• Eat more dairy products and calcium-fortified foods such as soy milk. Add leafy vegetables (collard greens and kale) and calcium-rich seeds and nuts to your diet.
• Incorporate fortified foods into your diet, like cereals and bread, which boost your everyday calcium intake.
• Get adequate vitamin D through daily sun exposure, fatty fish, fortified foods, and other vitamin D-rich foods.
• Engage in regular physical activity to help strengthen your bones and sustain normal calcium levels.
• Quit smoking, as it impacts bone health and may result in calcium loss.
• Limit soda and caffeine intake as they can inhibit calcium absorption.
• Drink an adequate amount of water to prevent dehydration and maintain proper kidney function.

Regular health checkups are crucial because they can help you diagnose health issues before they become worse. Regular medical tests can help you evaluate health concerns as well as the underlying causes allowing you to take necessary medications and preventive measures to avoid associated complications. Regular health checks result in efficient treatment and better outcomes. It will also help you evaluate your overall health and maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Sustaining normal blood calcium levels is essential for various bodily functions such as strong teeth and bones, suitable nerve and muscle function, proper blood clotting, and heart function. Calcium imbalances may cause mild to severe consequences. Low calcium (Hypocalcemia) can cause muscle spasms, cramps, and irregular heartbeats. 

High calcium levels (Hypercalcemia) can cause nausea, fatigue, and kidney problems. Consume the suggested daily dose of calcium-rich foods or supplements to reduce the risk of hypocalcemia. If you experience any symptoms of calcium imbalances, seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.