Signs That Indicate Low Calcium Levels in Women

Calcium is necessary for the development and health of bones, teeth, heart, and other muscles. Low calcium or hypocalcemia is a common condition in women that can lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Further, it can affect women at all stages of life.

 

This article explores the symptoms of low calcium in women, the causes of low calcium, and its effects.

What are the Causes of Low Calcium?

Certain factors may put one at risk for developing hypocalcemia. These include:

 

1. Prolonged periods of low calcium (especially in childhood)

2. Certain medications that could inhibit the absorption of calcium in the body

3. Stress

4. Kidney disease

5. Vitamin D or magnesium deficiencies

6. Intestinal disorders, which would prevent the absorption of calcium

7. Genetic factors

 

While experts are uncertain how common low calcium is, certain groups have been identified that are more at risk of developing it. These include post-menopausal women, lactose-intolerant individuals, individuals following vegetarian diets, and women with amenorrhoea (a condition in which they do not menstruate). A study published in the Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice Journal finds that women are more likely to suffer from low calcium, especially those past the age of 45.

 

Another significant factor in low calcium in women is a decrease in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen, a hormone that plays a critical role in calcium absorption, helps metabolise calcium and create enzymes that aid in activated vitamin D production, which is essential for calcium absorption.

What are the Symptoms of Low Calcium in Women?

In its early stages, calcium deficiency symptoms in females may go undetected. Early symptoms could also vary based on the level of deficiency. The following symptoms may be indicators of low calcium in women:

1. Brittle hair and nails

Nails and hair are good indicators of health. A calcium deficiency can make nails pale, weak, and prone to damage. Hair can also become dull and coarse and could even develop alopecia, a condition in which hair falls out in patches.

 

2. Premenstrual cramps

While premenstrual cramps are normal for many women, calcium deficiency could increase pain around the menstrual cycle. It could also lead to more severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, interfering with hormones.

 

3. Fatigue

Calcium deficiencies can lead to extreme tiredness and lack of energy, also called fatigue. Fatigue caused by hypocalcemia could include brain fog, confusion, sluggishness, dizziness, memory problems, and a lack of focus.

 

4. Toothaches and dental problems

Teeth contain large amounts of calcium. In the case of low calcium in women (and other groups), the body may pull calcium from the teeth to supplement this lack. This often leads to tooth decay, weak roots of teeth, toothache, irritated gums, and brittle and weak teeth.

 

5. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition affecting the bones. It makes them weak and brittle. This could lead to pain and fractures. While osteoporosis affects people of all genders and ages, it has been observed to be more common in women, especially those who have reached menopause.

 

A lack of calcium, especially over a long time, leads to the development of this condition, since it affects bone density. In hypocalcemia, the body may also divert calcium from the bones, causing weakness and making them extremely prone to fractures.

6. Depression

Low calcium may be associated with mental health and mood disorders, including depression. A study conducted by Frontiers found that with an increase in dietary calcium, symptoms of depression reduced.

 

Low calcium in women could also cause PMS-related depression in women since symptoms of PMS are heightened with low calcium levels.

 

If an individual witnesses any of these symptoms of low calcium in women, they must consult a medical professional.

How Can Low Calcium in Women Be Managed?

Treatment for low calcium levels can depend on several factors, including underlying conditions that may be causing the deficiency. One of the most common treatments for hypocalcemia is oral calcium supplements. Doctors may also prescribe vitamin D supplements since they are vital to the absorption of calcium. If hypoparathyroidism is the reason for calcium deficiency, synthetic forms of parathyroid hormones (PTH) may be prescribed to help control the issue.

 

Dietary changes may control milder deficiencies. Increasing the intake of calcium-rich foods like cheese, milk, leafy vegetables, sardines, etc., can increase calcium levels in the body.

 

Low calcium is diagnosed when the presence of calcium in the blood is lower than 8.8mg/dL. If individuals notice symptoms of low calcium, they must consult a healthcare professional and book a Calcium Serum test with Dr Lal PathLabs to help diagnose and begin treatment for calcium deficiency.

FAQs

1. How much daily calcium do women need?

Typically, women need about 1000-1200mg of calcium. The amount depends on their age as well.

2. What happens if women don’t get enough calcium?

Low calcium in women can cause complications like osteoporosis, fatigue, increased PMS symptoms, and dental issues.