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Tetany
Medical Questions » Tetany
| Name: Tetany |
| Also known as: |
| Form of muscle spasm that is totally different to a tetanus infection. |
Causes of Tetany
Rapid shallow breathing (hyperventilation) may start after a shock, surprise, injury or vigorous exercise, and can cause the amount of carbon dioxide in the lungs to increase. This dissolves in the blood to make it more alkaline (high ph) than normal, and small muscles in the hand and elsewhere are sensitive to this change in blood chemistry7. Hormonal and calcium imbalances in the blood may also be responsible. |
Symptoms of Tetany
Small muscles in the hand go into spasm with the wrist bent and fingers and thumb bunched together and pointed towards the wrist. Sometimes muscles in the forearms and feet also go into a firm spasm. |
Tests for Tetany
None normally necessary, but in repeated cases blood tests may detect abnormal calcium or hormone levels. |
Treatment for Tetany
Breathing into a paper bag for a few minutes increases the level of carbon dioxide in the lungs, slows the breathing and eases the spasm. Assisted by giving repeated reassurance.
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Complications of Tetany of its treatment
None significant. |
Likely Outcome of Tetany
Not serious. Settles spontaneously eventually, but sometimes not until after the patient has collapsed. Quick recovery with treatment. |
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