What’s tetany?

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Tetany is a muscle condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. Associated with calcium deficiency, tetany is commonly linked to hypoparathyroidism, but can also occur with other conditions, including tetanus infection and kidney disease. Treatment for tetany involves restoring the calcium balance in the body.
Involuntary muscle cramps are a medical sign that calcium levels in the body have dropped below normal, a condition known as hypocalcemia. Many of the body’s systems rely on calcium to function. Calcium distribution is governed by the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck. These glands are responsible for the production and distribution of parathyroid hormone, a key element in regulating calcium in the body. If parathyroid function is impaired, calcium levels can plummet leading to involuntary muscle spasms.

There are several symptoms of tetany that can occur individually or in combination. The most common sign is involuntary muscle spasms causing the affected area to twitch or tremble. Individuals with low calcium levels experience abdominal discomfort, lack of energy, and chronic diarrhea. Some people may also develop shortness of breath or tingling in the limbs.

If symptoms worsen or are accompanied by altered sensory perception, seizures, or paralysis, emergency medical attention should be sought as these are signs of serious complications. Prolonged symptoms can cause a variety of complications. Low levels of calcium can contribute to organ failure, paralysis and death.

Just because someone develops involuntary muscle spasms doesn’t necessarily mean their parathyroid glands aren’t functioning normally. There are many other causes of tetany that can negatively affect calcium levels. Tetanus infection can cause rapid depletion of calcium in the body leading to involuntary and painful muscle spasms. Individuals with thyroid, nerve, and kidney disorders may have symptoms. Dehydration and hyperventilation can also put you at risk for tetany.

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

There are several laboratory and diagnostic tests that can be done to determine the cause of your symptoms. A blood test may be done to check levels of hormones and minerals, including magnesium and calcium. If kidney function is impaired, too much calcium may be excreted during urination, therefore a urinalysis may be performed. Additional imaging tests may also be conducted to evaluate organ function, bone density, and rule out other conditions that can mimic tetany symptoms.

Calcium-based treatment for muscle twitching requires restoring adequate calcium levels in the body. Supplemental calcium, sometimes in combination with vitamin D, is given on a short- or long-term basis depending on the severity of symptoms. It is essential that the underlying cause of tetany is determined and adequately addressed to relieve symptoms and minimize the risk of recurrence.

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