Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia ECG, Changes, Findings, Effects, Symptoms, Signs
Content:
- Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia ECG
- ECG Changes: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
- Findings: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
- Effects: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
- Symptoms: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
- Signs: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia ECG
Hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia both lead to distinct changes in the electrocardiogram (ECG) due to their effects on calcium levels. Understanding these differences can help in diagnosing and treating the conditions effectively.

ECG Changes: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
Hypercalcemia leads to a shortened QT interval, as high calcium levels speed up repolarization. The ST segment is often depressed, and T waves may become wide. In contrast, hypocalcemia causes a prolonged QT interval, with an extended ST segment and a higher risk of torsades de pointes.
Findings: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
Hypercalcemia is characterized by symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, excessive thirst, and kidney stones. On the other hand, hypocalcemia manifests with muscle cramps, spasms, Chvostek’s sign, and tingling sensations.
Effects: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
Hypercalcemia affects the cardiovascular system by increasing the risk of arrhythmias, while hypocalcemia also increases arrhythmia risk but mainly by prolonging the QT interval. Hypercalcemia may lead to renal failure and bone pain, whereas hypocalcemia can cause neurological issues like seizures and ocular effects such as cataracts.
Symptoms: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
Symptoms of hypercalcemia include fatigue, polyuria, bone pain, and gastrointestinal issues, while hypocalcemia symptoms involve muscle cramps, tetany, irritability, and facial twitching.
Signs: Hypercalcemia vs Hypocalcemia
In hypercalcemia, signs such as dehydration, confusion, and cardiac arrhythmias may be evident. In hypocalcemia, signs include Chvostek's sign, Trousseau's sign, and hyperreflexia.
