Spasm and tetany both involve involuntary muscle contractions, but tetany is specifically related to electrolyte imbalances.
Here's a breakdown:
Spasm vs. Tetany: Key Differences
While the term "spasm" is often used broadly to describe involuntary muscle contractions, tetany has a more specific cause. Tetany is essentially a type of spasm characterized by prolonged muscle cramps or contractions due to electrolyte imbalances, particularly calcium.
| Feature | Spasm | Tetany |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Involuntary muscle contraction. | Involuntary muscle cramp or spasm due to electrolyte imbalance. |
| Cause | Various causes (e.g., overuse, dehydration). | Primarily due to alterations in body electrolytes (especially calcium). |
| Severity | Varies. | Can range from mild cramping to dangerous changes in heart function. |
| Example | Muscle cramp after exercise. | Carpopedal spasm (spasm of hands and feet) due to hypocalcemia. |
Tetany in Detail
Tetany arises from overly stimulated neuromuscular activity. This abnormal stimulation is often linked to:
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Particularly low calcium (hypocalcemia), but also low magnesium or high phosphate.
- Mechanism: Electrolytes, especially calcium, play a crucial role in nerve and muscle function. When calcium levels are too low, nerve cells become more excitable, leading to spontaneous muscle contractions.
Tetany can manifest in various ways:
- Mild: Cramping in the arms or legs.
- Severe:
- Carpopedal spasm (spasm of the hands and feet).
- Laryngospasm (spasm of the vocal cords, causing difficulty breathing).
- Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
