If you are low on calcium, you may even notice things like muscle cramps, tingling, or mood changes, but the good news is it is usually easy to treat
Calcium is among the most important nutrients that keep your bones, muscles, heart, and nerves working properly. Adequate calcium intake prevents conditions like osteoporosis and may contribute to lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels. However, according to experts, many adults do not get enough of it.
If you are low on calcium, you may even notice things like muscle cramps, tingling, or mood changes, but the good news is it is usually easy to treat. A few signs and symptoms of calcium deficiency include:
Constant fatigue and tiredness
According to experts, calcium supports your body's muscular and nervous systems, and if you do not get an adequate amount of this mineral, it can cause weakness or fatigue. Doctors say fatigue and extreme tiredness can set in as your body adjusts to low calcium levels, and you may feel drained of energy despite taking a rest.
Numbness and tingling sensation
If you are calcium deficient, you may feel it in your nerves – especially your hands and feet. According to experts, it results in feelings of numbness and tingling, especially in your fingers and toes.
Gum issues
Most of the calcium in your body is stored in your teeth and bones. However, when you are deficient in this nutrient, it can make them brittle – leading to oral and dental-like blood coming out of the gums and severe pain.
Not getting enough calcium also weakens your tooth enamel, even causing tooth loss.
Sore muscles
Sore and aching muscles are a common symptom of a lack of calcium in your body. Doctors say since it supports proper muscle movement and function and helps your muscles contract and relax, being low in calcium can make you experience cramps, aches, spasms, and stiffness.
Cataracts
According to studies, low calcium levels lead to eye and vision changes like cataracts – leading to blurry vision – and other age-related eye issues. If you lack calcium in your diet, you are also susceptible to a higher risk of age-related macular degeneration or AMD, which causes blurry or distorted central vision.
Mental health issues
Calcium supports a few neurotransmitters – also known as chemical messengers between nerves – in your brain that impact mood swings. Doctors say if there is an imbalance in calcium levels, it can lead to symptoms of depression or anxiety, along with irritability and confusion.
These signs develop gradually and can resolve as calcium levels are restored.
Osteoporosis
Calcium is an important mineral for bone health, helping to maintain bone structure and strength. While bones naturally start to lose calcium around age 30, being calcium deficient can make you more likely to experience osteopenia or osteoporosis.
What are the risk factors of calcium deficiency?
When your body is not able to take in or absorb enough calcium through diet or supplements, it causes calcium deficiency. According to doctors, it can be triggered by a variety of causes, like:
- Kidney disease
- Low magnesium levels
- Medications like antibiotics and antiseizure drugs
-
Pancreatitis Parathyroid gland issues
- Vitamin D deficiency
Some people are at a higher risk of experiencing calcium deficiency, particularly those who are postmenopausal (whose menstrual cycle has completely stopped).
Ways to treat calcium deficiency
A few ways you can treat calcium deficiency include first getting properly diagnosed through a calcium blood test. Your doctor may suggest:
- Calcium supplements, given orally or intravenously
- Changing medications that could lead to calcium deficiency
- Treating underlying conditions that may cause low calcium levels
