MAGNESIUM Detail

The Magnesium test evaluates the concentration of magnesium, an essential mineral involved in hundreds of biochemical processes in the body. Magnesium is critical for muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm regulation, bone health, and energy production.

Abnormal magnesium levels may indicate various health issues:

• Low magnesium (hypomagnesemia) can result from malnutrition, alcoholism, chronic diarrhea, diabetes, kidney disorders, or use of certain medications like diuretics. It may cause symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat, or seizures.

• High magnesium (hypermagnesemia) is less common but can occur in kidney failure or from excessive magnesium intake (e.g., antacids or supplements).

This test is often ordered when symptoms of imbalance are present or in patients with kidney disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or chronic gastrointestinal disorders.