You have been diagnosed with hypocalcemia (not enough calcium in your blood). Calcium is a mineral. It helps develop bones and teeth, controls heart rhythm, and allows muscles to contract. Causes of hypocalcemia include lack of calcium or vitamin D in your diet, digestive system problems, gland problems, kidney or pancreas disease, and low magnesium levels. Each of these possible causes comes with its own treatments and other things to look out for.
Home care
-
Eat more foods high in calcium. Increase your intake (in moderation) of dairy products such as milk, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Fortified soy milk and orange juice, spinach, kale, sardines, salmon, and tofu are also good sources of calcium.
-
Read food labels. Buy dairy products, juices, and breads that contain added calcium.
-
Take a calcium supplement as directed by your healthcare provider.
-
Take a vitamin D supplement as directed by your healthcare provider. Most multivitamin tablets contain vitamin D.
-
Don't have salty foods. Salt makes you lose calcium.
-
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines you are taking. This includes herbal preparations and other dietary supplements. Some common medicines can cause your body to lose calcium.
-
Go back to your normal activities as directed by your healthcare provider.
Follow-up
Make a follow-up appointment, or as advised by your healthcare provider. Depending on the cause of your hypocalcemia, you may need frequent blood tests. They will help to be sure that the level of calcium in your blood remains in the normal range.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:
-
Extreme fatigue
-
Depression
-
Hallucinations
-
Muscle cramps, spasms, or twitching
-
Numbness and tingling in the arms, legs, hands, or feet
-
Seizures
-
Irregular heartbeat
Online Medical Reviewer: Brittany Poulson MDA RDN CD CDE
Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer: Robert Hurd MD
Date Last Reviewed: 12/01/2022
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Find the right provider to meet your needs
From primary care to specialty services and more.
Find a Doctor
Call for an Appointment
Offering personalized care at more than 20 clinics across three cities and two states.
Call NowRelated Articles
Discharge Instructions for Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia means you have a high level of potassium in your blood. Learn how to care for hyperkalemia at home, including what diet changes to make.
Discharge Instructions: Using a Walker to Sit Down and Stand Up
To use your walker, you need to learn new ways to get around. A walker can help you when you sit down and stand up.
Shoulder Bruise
You have a shoulder injury called a contusion (bruise). This causes pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising on the skin.
Jaw Fracture
You have a broken jaw, or mandible bone. This is called a jaw fracture. It may be a minor break in the bone. Or you may have a major break, with the bone moving out of place. Learn how to care for the fracture as you heal.