Abnormally low levels of calcium in the blood, typically below 8.5 mg/dL. Can cause muscle cramps, tingling, seizures, and potentially life-threatening heart problems.
From Greek 'hypo' (under/below), Latin 'calx' (lime/calcium), and Greek 'haima' (blood). Recognition of this condition became crucial with the development of major surgery in the early 20th century, when accidental parathyroid gland removal caused severe hypocalcemia.
Hypocalcemia can cause your muscles to become hyperexcitable, leading to painful cramps and even seizures. The classic test is Chvostek's sign - tapping the facial nerve causes the face to twitch when calcium is low, a simple bedside test that can reveal a potentially dangerous condition.
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