Magnesium, Serum

Magnesium is essential for nerve and muscle function, immune system functioning, to maintain a steady heart beat, and to keep bones strong. Magnesium also helps in the regulation of blood glucose levels and aids in the energy and protein production. Magnesium test is used to measure magnesium levels in the blood or urine. Impaired or excessive excretion of magnesium by the kidneys and/or impaired absorption in the intestines can cause abnormal levels of magnesium. Low magnesium levels in the blood for longer periods can cause persistently low levels of calcium and potassium, so magnesium levels are also tested to diagnose problems related to calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and/or parathyroid hormone. Magnesium levels may be measured frequently to monitor the response to oral or intravenous (IV) magnesium therapy. Magnesium levels are also helpful to evaluate the severity of kidney diseases, to diagnose gastrointestinal disorders and/or uncontrolled diabetes.

1. Is magnesium tested routinely?

Magnesium is not tested as frequently as other minerals. It is done when a person has abnormal calcium levels and symptoms that may be due to a excess or deficiency of magnesium.

2. What are the uses of magnesium?

Magnesium is essential for nerve and muscle function, immune system functioning, to maintain a steady heart beat, and to keep bones strong. Magnesium also helps in the regulation of blood glucose levels and aids in the energy and protein production.

3. What are the symptoms of magnesium deficiency?

Twitches, tremors and muscle cramps, seizures or convulsions, mental disorders, osteoporosis, fatigue, muscle weakness etc.

4. What are the symptoms of magnesium excess?

Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, lethargy, muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, urine retention, respiratory distress, cardiac arrest