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What Is Tetany?

J.M. Willhite
J.M. Willhite

Tetany is a muscle condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. Associated with calcium deficiency, tetany is commonly linked to hypoparathyroidism, but may also occur with other conditions, including tetanus infection and kidney disease. Treatment for tetany involves restoring the body’s calcium balance.

Involuntary muscle cramping is a medical sign that calcium levels in the body have dipped below normal, a condition known as hypocalcemia. Many of the body’s systems rely on calcium in order to function. Calcium distribution is governed by the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck. These glands are in charge of the production and distribution of parathyroid hormone, a key element in the regulation of calcium in the body. If parathyroid function becomes impaired, calcium levels can plummet leading to involuntary muscle spasms.

A urinalysis is often performed to test kidney function, which can be affected by tetany.
A urinalysis is often performed to test kidney function, which can be affected by tetany.

There are several tetany symptoms that may occur singly or in combination. The most common sign is involuntary muscle spasms that cause twitching or shaking in the affected area. Individuals with low calcium levels experience abdominal discomfort, a lack of energy and chronic diarrhea. Some people may also develop shortness of breath or tingling in their limbs.

Tetany may cause abdominal spasms.
Tetany may cause abdominal spasms.

If symptoms worsen or are accompanied by impaired sensory perception, seizures or paralysis, emergency medical care should be sought as these are the signs of serious complication. Prolonged symptoms can result in a range of complications. Diminished calcium levels can contribute to organ failure, paralysis and death.

Just because someone develops involuntary muscle spasms, it doesn’t necessarily mean his or her parathyroid glands are not functioning normally. There are several other tetany causes that can adversely affect calcium levels. Tetanus infection can cause a rapid depletion of calcium in the body leading to involuntary, painful muscle spasms. Individuals with thyroid, nerve and kidney disorders may exhibit symptoms. Dehydration and hyperventilation can also place one at risk for tetany.

Shortness of breath is one symptom of tetany.
Shortness of breath is one symptom of tetany.

Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in calcium absorption. In order for the body to properly take in and make use of calcium, vitamin D must be present. Therefore, individuals with a vitamin D deficiency are considered at greatest risk for impaired muscle function.

There are several laboratory and diagnostic tests that may be performed to determine the cause of one’s symptoms. A blood panel may be ordered to check hormone and mineral levels, including magnesium and calcium. If kidney function is impaired, too much calcium may be expelled during urination, therefore, a urinalysis may be performed. Additional imaging tests may also be conducted to evaluate organ function, bone density and discount other conditions that may mimic tetany symptoms.

Tetany complications can be life-threatening.
Tetany complications can be life-threatening.

Treatment for calcium-based muscle contractions requires the restoration of proper calcium levels in the body. Supplemental calcium, sometimes in combination with vitamin D, is administered over the short or long term depending on the severity of one’s symptoms. It is essential the underlying cause of the tetany is determined and properly addressed to alleviate symptoms and minimize the risk of recurrence.

Discussion Comments

anon992110

Who is likely to develop tetany? Or is it mainly based on diet?

bear78

Tetany can happen in animals too. A few of our cows have suffered from it in the past. The vet had said that they have grass tetany which is basically when they feed on pasture with high amounts of potassium. We gave them special hay, had them rest and the spasms went away on their own. It was scary but thankfully, not permanent or serious.

turquoise

@donasmrs-- Of course, there are various causes of muscle spasms. Tetany is the type of muscle spasm caused by low calcium levels specifically. I'm not a doctor and this is as far as my knowledge of spasms go. Your doctor can best explain to you the cause of your spasm although I've heard that sometimes a specific cause can't be found.

If you suspect low calcium levels for whatever reason though, you can ask for a test. There are also a few signs that doctors can check for. My doctor, for example, had checked for the Trousseau sign with me.

donasmrs

Is it necessary that all muscle spasms be linked with calcium levels?

I had a muscle spasm last year which was debilitating and took a very long time to recover from. But my doctor felt that it had to do with a present back injury (herniated disc) and tetany or calcium levels were not even mentioned. I'm assuming that some muscle spasms have nothing to do with calcium spasms. Am I right?

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    • A urinalysis is often performed to test kidney function, which can be affected by tetany.
      By: Photoroller
      A urinalysis is often performed to test kidney function, which can be affected by tetany.
    • Tetany may cause abdominal spasms.
      By: xalanx
      Tetany may cause abdominal spasms.
    • Shortness of breath is one symptom of tetany.
      By: nuiiko
      Shortness of breath is one symptom of tetany.
    • Tetany complications can be life-threatening.
      By: Monkey Business
      Tetany complications can be life-threatening.
    • For many people, milk and other dietary sources supply only 30% of the recommended daily allowance of calcium.
      By: efired
      For many people, milk and other dietary sources supply only 30% of the recommended daily allowance of calcium.
    • Tetany has been linked to kidney disease.
      By: nerthuz
      Tetany has been linked to kidney disease.
    • Surgery and medication may be used along with physical therapy or guided exercise to regain bone density and rebuild muscle lost to parathyroid disorders.
      By: CandyBox Images
      Surgery and medication may be used along with physical therapy or guided exercise to regain bone density and rebuild muscle lost to parathyroid disorders.
    • Individuals with thyroid disorders may exhibit symptoms of tetany.
      By: CLIPAREA.com
      Individuals with thyroid disorders may exhibit symptoms of tetany.
    • Diminished calcium levels can contribute to organ failure.
      By: 7activestudio
      Diminished calcium levels can contribute to organ failure.