Overview

Many times, people experience numbness and tingling in their feet and hands. They may also get frequent muscle spasms and cramps. These are all indicative of lower levels of calcium in the body. Calcium deficiency occurs when the body lacks adequate calcium, a vital mineral essential for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signalling. Insufficient intake or absorption can lead to weakened bones, dental issues, and various health complications, highlighting the importance of maintaining optimal calcium levels for overall well-being.

Calcium is an integral mineral with a significant role - to strengthen bones. About 98% of the calcium in the body is stored in bones. Calcium is needed for bone density and growth and for properly functioning teeth, heart, nerves, and muscles.

Before understanding calcium deficiency, it is imperative to understand the difference between calcium inadequacy and calcium deficiency. Calcium inadequacy occurs when the calcium intake is less than the dietary recommendations but above the deficiency level. An inadequacy of calcium is not a threatening condition and can easily be managed with additional supplements in the diet. However, calcium deficiency or hypocalcemia is a serious concern as the deficiency of calcium could lead to osteoporosis - a condition that weakens bones and causes other life-threatening problems.

Let’s explore what causes calcium deficiency, its symptoms, and its treatment options.

Causes of Calcium Deficiency

An inadequate diet is a significant factor that leads to calcium deficiency. However, it is not the only reason or the cause of calcium deficiency. Some of the causes that lead to calcium deficiency are as follows:

Not getting enough Vitamin D or magnesium
Medications that may decrease calcium absorption in the bloodstream
Not producing enough parathyroid hormone
Any critical illness
Cancer-related drugs or chemotherapy
Dietary intolerance to calcium-rich foods
Hormonal changes, especially in women
The underlying condition affects the ability to absorb or metabolise the nutrient properly. (e.g., Crohn’s Disease).

Common Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, muscle function, and nervous system. Besides providing physical strength to the body, calcium is responsible for blood clotting, heart rhythm, and other bodily functions.

Starting from fatigue to muscle cramps, the deficiency of calcium deficiency can cause many symptoms, including:

Muscle spasms and cramps
Numbness and tingling in your feet and hands
Pain or swelling in the joints, such as fingers, toes, and ankles
Weakness in your legs, knees, or arms
Frequent fracturing of bones, especially wrists, ankles, or hips
Dry skin, brittle nails
Tooth decay
Irregular heartbeat

Dietary Requirements to Prevent Calcium Deficiency

The easiest way to reduce the risk of getting calcium deficient is to increase the consumption through diet. Some of the common foods that will help in increasing the component of calcium in your bloodstream are:

Milk, cottage cheese, yoghurt, etc.
Low-fat or non-fat dairy products
Tofu
Fortified cereal or beverages containing calcium and vitamin
Soy and almond milk
Broccoli
Figs
Fish

Note: while buying fortified beverages, it is advised to shake the container before drinking the beverage. The added calcium can settle at the bottom.

Treatment of Calcium Deficiency

Treating calcium deficiency or hypocalcemia is quite manageable. For mild symptoms, doctors usually advise the consumption of supplements with the diet. However, if the symptoms are severe with supplements, intravenous infusions may be needed.

Besides consuming supplements and meeting dietary needs, a change in lifestyle with regular weight-bearing exercises will benefit and promote bone health and calcium absorption.

The treatment varies for each individual, which varies depending on factors such as age, prior medications, medical conditions, etc.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

In conclusion, managing calcium deficiency involves a holistic approach to making dietary changes, including supplements with diet and lifestyle adjustments. Taking proactive steps to maintain an adequate calcium balance in your body is the key to maintaining your overall health. In case the symptoms persist or worsen, taking medical advice is necessary to identify and address any underlying reasons causing the calcium deficiency. In the end, having a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle is the key to maintaining the optimal levels of calcium and any nutrient needed by the body and achieving overall well-being.

Reference

https://www.health.com/condition/osteoarthritis/deficiency-of-calcium
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321865#treatment-and-prevention
https://www.healthline.com/health/calcium-deficiency-disease#treatment
https://regencyhealthcare.in/blog/hypocalcemia-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/