Diseases
hypomagnesemia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Hypomagnesemia is an electrolyte disturbance caused by a low serum magnesium level (less than 1.46 mg/dL) in the blood. Hypomagnesemia can be attributed to chronic disease, alcohol use disorder, gastrointestinal losses, renal losses, and other conditions.
Symptoms
- tremors
- tetany
- abnormal eye movements (nystagmus).
- fatigue and weakness.
Causes
- too little intake of magnesium into your body.
- excessive loss of magnesium through your kidneys (pee) or your gastrointestinal tract (stool).
- movement of magnesium from extracellular fluid into less accessible locations (less common).
Risk factors
- alcohol use disorder.
- uncontrolled diabetes.
- diuretic drugs (hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, furosemide, bumetanide).
Diagnosis
- calcium blood test.
- comprehensive metabolic panel.
- potassium blood test.
- urine magnesium test.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is hypomagnesemia?
Hypomagnesemia is an electrolyte disturbance caused by a low serum magnesium level (less than 1.46 mg/dL) in the blood. Hypomagnesemia can be attributed to chronic disease, alcohol use disorder, gastrointestinal losses, renal losses, and other conditions.
What are the symptoms of hypomagnesemia?
tremors, tetany, abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)., fatigue and weakness.
What causes hypomagnesemia?
too little intake of magnesium into your body.; excessive loss of magnesium through your kidneys (pee) or your gastrointestinal tract (stool).; movement of magnesium from extracellular fluid into less accessible locations (less common).
Which medicines are used for hypomagnesemia?
magnesium sulphate
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