Hypocalcemia (hye-poe-kal-SEE-mee-uh) is when a person doesn't have enough calcium in their blood, which can cause health problems. Calcium is a nutrient needed to build strong bones and teeth. It also helps muscles, nerves, and the heart work well. Hypocalcemia in children can have different causes, some of which are temporary and treated quickly, while others need long-term management.

• Give your child any prescribed medicines or vitamin supplements as directed.
• If the health care provider recommended a calcium supplement, give it to your child as suggested (such as with a meal or a feeding). This helps the body absorb it. 
• Don't stop giving the supplements to your child unless directed to do so by your health care provider.
• Follow any recommendations by your health care provider for changes to your child's diet. 
• Go to all follow-up visits with your health care provider. They may ask you to take your child to get blood tests or urine tests. Depending on the test results, they might adjust your child's medicines or supplements.

Your child:

• Pees more often and in larger amounts than usual
• Is thirstier than usual
• Has nausea or vomiting
• Has frequent or severe constipation (pooping less than usual or having dry, hard, or difficult-to-pass poops)
• Has trouble concentrating
• Seems weak or low on energy
• Has muscle twitching, cramps, or spasms

Your child:

• Passes out
• Has a seizure
• Has trouble breathing

What are the signs of hypocalcemia? Kids with low calcium could have muscle spasms or twitches, shaking, seizures, weakness, or breathing problems. Babies might be fussy, vomit, not feed well, or seem weak and floppy.

How is hypocalcemia treated? Calcium and vitamin D supplements are the usual treatments for hypocalcemia. Vitamin D helps the body absorb enough calcium. These supplements are usually taken by mouth, but sometimes the health care team may need to give the first few doses of calcium in the hospital through an IV (into a vein).