Question

Explain the different of low serum calcium on skeletal muscle and cardiac muscle

Answer 1

Normal calcium Level:

• Total Serum 8.5-10.5 mg/dl
• Ionized 4-6 mg/dl

CA⁺needed for in the body for muscle contraction, metabolic process, enzyme reaction like those involved in blood clotting, & structure to bones & teeth.

Low levels of Calcium in the ECF  $\rightarrow$  Cells swell as Ca⁺ rushes in ≤8.5 mg/dl (total) ≤4.0 (Ionized)
Low CA⁺ levels increase the permeability & excitability of the nerve membranes.

Hypocalcemia or low levels of calcium results in weak contractions, Arrhythmias, and low BP., weak thready pulse.

Hypocalcemia or low levels of calcium results in muscle twitching & hyperactive DTR, laryngospasms.

Chovstek's face & Trousseau's arm, Charley horses, circumoral paresthesias.

Causes hyperactive responses & tetany

Skeletal muscles contain nerves which are irritated by low CA⁺ levels causing them to spasm, muscles also contain stored CA⁺. Cardiac muscle contains no nerves to be irritated. Lack of CA⁺ causes the heart to slow because it cannot contract without it.