Calcium functions and imbalances Flashcards
Where is a majority of Ca stored?
Bones and teeth
What activities does Ca play a role in?
- Bone mineralization
- Muscle contraction
- Nerve transmission
- Blood clotting
- Hormone secretion
- Heart function
What form of Ca is most accurate in analysis of Ca levels?
Protein bound or Ionized.
Ionized Ca
What is considered critically low Ca?
< 6 mg/dL (protein bound)
< 2.2 mg/dL (ionized)
What medications can lead to hypocalcemia?
- Stimulant laxatives
- Long term glucocorticoid use
- Loop diuretics
- PPIs
- Histamine H2 blockers
What gland plays an important role in Ca homeostasis?
Parathyroid
Cardiovascular manifestations of hypocalcemia?
- Chest pain
- Dysrhythmias
- Heart failure
- Syncope
Neuromuscular manifestations of hypocalcemia?
- Paresthesias to fingers toes, and around the mouth
- Muscle cramping/spasms most notable in back and lower extremities
Neurological manifestations of hypocalcemia?
- Confusion
- Depression
- Psychosis
- Seizures
Respiratory manifestations of hypocalcemia
- Wheezing
- Spasms of larynx and airway
- Dysphagia
- Voice changes
Integumentary manifestations of hypocalcemia?
- Coarse hair
- Hair loss
- Brittle nails
- Dry skin
What two physical exam findings are indicators of hypocalcemia?
Positive Chvostek’s sign and positive Trousseau’s sign
A positive Chvostek sign results in…
Facial muscle twitching elicitation by tapping on the facial nerve.
A positive Trousseau sign results in…
Flexion of wrist, thumb, and first fingers combined with hyperextension of the fingers after a BP cuff has been inflated on a patient’s arm for about 3-5 min.
