Hyperventilation causing symptomatic hypocalcaemia during labour in a parturient

Hyperventilation often occurs under stressful conditions and has been reported before, during or after anaesthesia and surgery. Hyperventilation is characterised by multiple somatic symptoms due to hypocalcaemia induced by respiratory alkalosis because of inappropriate hyperventilation. It should be managed as an emergency. Here, we report a case of 30 year old full term parturient presenting in labour in a highly anxious state, presenting with symptoms and signs of hypocalcaemia in the form of circumoral numbness along with carpal spasm. The patient was managed successfully with reassurance and intravenous calcium gluconate.