About this topic
A low level of magnesium in the blood is hypomagnesia. Magnesium is an electrolyte that you get from the foods you eat. It helps keep normal activity in your nerve and muscle cells. It is important to your heart and bones. Magnesium is needed to help your body make certain hormones. It helps maintain your blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Low magnesium levels can lead to low calcium levels as well. ‚
What are the causes?
The body keeps a balance of magnesium in the blood. The magnesium taken into the body is matched by how much is taken out of the body. This is controlled by the kidneys and some hormones. Low magnesium levels may happen for a few reasons. Some health conditions can keep you from being able to take in or get rid of magnesium the right way. Your body may not be able to use the magnesium you are taking in or your kidneys may be getting rid of too much magnesium. You are more likely to have low magnesium levels if you: ‚
- Have problems with your bowels like Crohns or celiac disease
- Have problems with your kidneys
- Are older
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Take certain drugs
- Drink too much alcohol over a long time
What are the main signs?
People who have low magnesium levels in their blood may have some signs or they may have none at all. You may notice: ‚
- Upset stomach and throwing up
- Feeling tired and weak
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle cramps
- Personality changes
- Seizures
- Change in heart rhythm
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Your exercise routine
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Treatment is based on the cause. The doctor will work to treat any condition that may be causing your magnesium level to be low. You may also need to change your diet. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Raise the magnesium levels in your blood
- Change certain hormone levels in your body
- Treat the cause of your low magnesium
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
https://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/magnesium/tab/test/ ‚
National Institutes of Health ‚
https://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/magnesium/tab/test/ ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-08-04 ‚
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Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚