10 Causes of Muscle Cramps
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #3: Hypocalcemia
Hypocalcemia occurs when the calcium levels in the blood serum is low. The normal range of serum calcium level is 2.1 to 2.6 mmol/l. This means that serum calcium levels below 2.1 mmol/l is defined as hypocalcemia. Symptoms of hypocalcemia are muscle spasms, cramps, numbness, confusion, seizures, and cardiac arrest.
Hypocalcemia can be caused by vitamin D deficiency, hypoparathyroidism, kidney failure, rhabdomyolysis, and pancreatitis. Treatment options involve intravenous calcium chloride, magnesium sulfate, calcium supplements, and vitamin D.
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