What is one of the effects of hypocalcemia on cardiac function?

Hypocalcemia, a condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood, has significant effects on cardiac function. One of the primary impacts is the depression of cardiac activity. Calcium is crucial for various aspects of cardiac physiology, including the contraction of heart muscle cells. It plays a vital role in the excitation-contraction coupling process, where calcium influx leads to muscle fiber contraction.

When calcium levels are low, the availability of calcium for contraction is diminished, which results in a weaker contraction strength and reduced overall heart activity. This can lead to manifestations such as bradycardia (a slower heart rate) and potentially can contribute to arrhythmias, as the electrical conduction system of the heart relies on calcium ions for proper function.

Low calcium levels impede the heart's ability to pump effectively, thus correlating with a decrease in cardiac output and overall cardiovascular performance. Hence, the correct mention of depressed heart activity reflects the influence of hypocalcemia on cardiac physiology.