Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 27 Jul 2024
Warning Signs That Indicate Low Calcium Levels In Women
In India, a national survey found that 21 per cent of Indian women are deficient in calciun
Low levels of calcium – an important nutrient that keeps your bones strong and healthy- can lead to a condition known as Hypocalcemia – which causes various signs and symptoms. Not only does it affect your bones, but it also causes dangerous changes in your eyes and brain, which are irreversible.
According to experts, calcium deficiency does not cause any early symptoms. It is usually mild, but without treatment, it can become life-threatening. And so, here are a few early warning signs that you should not ignore at all. Global statistics estimate more than 3.5 billion people are at risk of calcium deficiency due to low dietary rates. In India, a national survey found that 21 per cent of f Indian women are deficient in calcium.
Warning signs of calcium deficiency in women
The following sections look at symptoms of calcium deficiency in more detail.
Extreme tiredness
If calcium levels are extremely low in your body, it can cause extreme fatigue and tiredness – causing a lack of energy and an overall feeling of sluggishness. According to doctors, this recurrent condition can cause immense sleep issues and insomnia. Fatigue associated with a calcium deficiency also involves lightheadedness, dizziness, and brain fog.
Ostopenia and osteoperosis
You need a regular intake of calcium to keep your bones in good condition. However, low levels can divert some from the bones, making them brittle and prone to injury. You can also have osteopenia - a reduction of mineral density in the bones, which in the long run causes osteoporosis – a painful condition.
Severe PMS
Women with low levels of calcium in their body, have severe premenstrual syndrome or PMS. According to studies, women report improved mood and reduced rates of fluid retention after they regularly take calcium daily for at least two months.
Mental health issues
According to experts, calcium deficiency can lead to extreme mood disorders, including depression and anxiety.
- Broken nails, dry skin
- A long-term calcium deficiency causes:
- Extremely dry, itchy skin
- Dry, broken, or brittle nails
- Coarse hair
- Alopecia – a condition which causes hair to fall out in patches
- Eczema or skin inflammation that can lead to itchy or dry patches
- Psoriasis
Muscle aches
If you have calcium deficiency, you may suffer from:
- Severe aches and cramps in your muscles
- Pain in your thigh and arms when walking or moving
- Feeling of numbness and tingling in your hands, arms, feet, and legs, as well as around the mouth
- These symptoms may come and go, but they do not tend to disappear with activity.
What are the complications of calcium deficiency?
Doctors say calcium deficiency is linked to:
- Dental issues problems
- Fractures
- Seizures
- Disability