CALCIUM

Question 1

signs + symptoms of hypocalcaemia

Answer 1

MCD-F
- muscle cramps
- confusion
- depression
- forgetful

Question 2

signs + symptoms of hypercalcaemia

Answer 2

CALMN
- confusion
- arrythmia
- lethargy
- muscle cramps
- nausea

Question 3

dietary calcium deficiency tx

Answer 3

calcium supplements

Question 4

how much calcium is recommended in osteoporosis

Answer 4

double recommended amount reduces rate of bone loss

Question 5

which vitamin is given with oral supplements of calcium

Answer 5

vitamin D

Question 6

Severe acute hypocalcaemia or hypocalcemic tetany tx

Answer 6

• initial slow IV calcium gluconate 10% with plasma-calcium and ECG monitoring (arrhythmias if given rapidly)
• repeated if needed or follow with continous IV to prevent recurrence

Question 7

hypercalcaemia severe tx

Answer 7

• correct dehydration = IV NaCl 0.9%
• stop drugs = hypercal + restrict dietary Ca+
• bisphosphonates + pamidronate disodium used
• corticosteroids used if hypercal due to sarcoidosis or vit D toxicity
• calcitonin used if assoc with maligancy

Question 8

hypercalciuria tx

Answer 8

• increase fluid intake
• give bendroflumethazide
• reduce dietary Ca+ intake but not severe restriction