What is hypocalcemia?
Hypocalcemia is a condition in which there is too little calcium in the
blood. A common form of hypocalcemia in babies is called neonatal
hypocalcemia. This condition may occur at different times with different
causes, including the following:
- early hypocalcemia - occurs in the first three days of life.
- late hypocalcemia - develops between the fifth to tenth days
of life, usually after several days of formula feedings. Some formulas
have high levels of phosphate which can lower the blood calcium levels.
What causes hypocalcemia?
Hypocalcemia is thought to be caused by immaturity of parathyroid glands
that make calcium. Hypocalcemia is more common in premature and low
birthweight babies, because their parathyroid glands are less mature. It
can also occur in babies who have a difficult birth and in babies of
diabetic mothers.
What are the symptoms of hypocalcemia?
Symptoms of hypocalcemia may not be obvious in newborn babies.
The following are the most common symptoms of hypocalcemia. However, each
baby may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- irritability
- muscle twitches
- jitteriness
- tremors
- poor feeding
- lethargy
- seizures
The symptoms of hypocalcemia may resemble other conditions or medical
problems. Always consult your baby's physician for a diagnosis.
How is hypocalcemia diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical
examination, diagnosis of hypocalcemia is made by testing the blood for
the amount of calcium.
Treatment for hypocalcemia:
Hypocalcemia may get better without treatment in some cases, especially if
there are no symptoms. However, specific treatment for hypocalcemia will
be determined by your baby's physician based on:
- your baby's gestational age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the disease
- your baby's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or
therapies
- expectations for the course of the disease
- your opinion or preference
Treatment may include:
- supplemental calcium gluconate (a form of calcium that is easily
absorbed) given by mouth
- intravenous (IV) calcium gluconate