What is hypocalcaemia and why is it important?
Hypocalcaemia means an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood stream. Normally the body is able to keep the blood level within a narrow range (2.2-2.6 mmol/L) which in health fluctuates little in any one person. If for some reason the calcium level falls well below normal, important symptoms can occur. For instance, muscles tighten up (especially if under repetitive strain), and painful muscle cramps and “pins and needle” sensations may develop. These symptoms are more likely to occur if there is a sudden drop in the calcium level – for instance over 1 to 2 days. If the calcium is subnormal for long periods of time (months or years), these muscle symptoms may lessen but other problems may eventually develop – for instance lens cataracts (affecting vision), dry skin and hair, brittle nails and chronic tiredness. In children, enamel on the teeth may not develop properly and other more serious problems affecting leaning ability and behavior may be seen. For all these reasons, it is
