What are the signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia?

Hypocalcemia, or low levels of calcium in the blood, is associated with specific signs and symptoms primarily due to the role that calcium plays in neuromuscular function and cardiac health. Muscle cramps and tetany are direct manifestations of increased neuromuscular excitability, which occurs when calcium levels decrease, leading to excessive stimulation of nerve endings. Tetany is characterized by muscle spasms, particularly in the hands and feet, often accompanied by tingling sensations in the extremities.

Furthermore, hypocalcemia can lead to cardiac arrhythmias because calcium is crucial for the proper conduction of electrical impulses in the heart. Low calcium levels can disrupt this electrical conduction, potentially leading to various rhythm disturbances, which can be dangerous.

In contrast, the other options present symptoms that are not typical for hypocalcemia. Increased heart rate and sweating might be related to other conditions, dehydration and high blood pressure are more associated with fluid imbalances rather than calcium levels, and swelling and fluid retention suggest issues related to fluid overload or other electrolyte imbalances, not specifically hypocalcemia. Therefore, the combination of muscle cramps, tetany, and cardiac arrhythmias accurately represents the clinical picture of hypocalcemia.