NUTRITION PROJECT
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A disease that I choose is hypocalcemia which is a condition that occurs when there is an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood. Calcium is necessary for the body’s regular functioning and must be consumed. The amounts of calcium in your blood are regulated by your hormones. It might be difficult to determine whether or not you have hypocalcemia since the condition is often identified via medical testing. Paresthesia, muscular spasms and cramps, tetany, circumorally numbness, and seizures are the kind of symptoms that are most typically associated with hypocalcemia.
A deficiency in vitamin D is one of the potential causes of hypocalcemia. Additionally, it may be an indicator of a problem with the kidneys, the pancreas, or the four tiny glands located in the neck known as the parathyroid glands. The majority of patients do not present any symptoms. In more severe instances, symptoms might include cramping in the muscles, disorientation, and a tingling sensation in the lips and fingers. The patient is given calcium and vitamin D supplements as part of the treatment. In the event that there is an underlying ailment, therapy for that condition will also be required.
The only method to determine for certain whether or not you have hypocalcemia is to have a blood test done. With this test, we will be able to determine whether or not you are suffering from hypocalcemia. Additionally, it may assist in determining whether or not the condition is brought on by your kidneys or parathyroid glands. Hypocalcemia is diagnosed when a person’s blood calcium level is measured and found to be less than 8.8 milligrams per deciliter (Mg/dL); this indicates that the person does not have sufficient calcium in their blood. There are instances when you may need to undergo further tests in order to have a complete understanding of what is causing your hypocalcemia.
An ultrasound of your kidneys and genetic testing might both be included in the battery of extra examinations. An ultrasound is a procedure in which sound waves with a high frequency are used to create an image of the inside of a patient’s body. This gives the doctor the ability to examine all of your body’s systems, including your organs, to look for any abnormalities or potential problems. However, hypocalcemia can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, so the treatment you receive will depend on your specific medical situation.
REFERENCES
Pepe, J., Colangelo, L., Biamonte, F., Sonato, C., Danese, V. C., Cecchetti, V., … & Cipriani, C. (2020). Diagnosis and management of hypocalcemia. Endocrine, 69(3), 485-495.
