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Magnesium

Also known as Serum magnesium test

₹469

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Earliest reports in

18 hours

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Magnesium

What is Magnesium?

The Magnesium test is used to determine the level of magnesium, a vital mineral, in blood. It is done to evaluate kidney problems or uncontrolled diabetes. It may also be performed to help diagnose gastrointestinal (relating to the stomach and intestines) disorders.

Magnesium (Mg) is a macro-mineral, which means the body needs it in large amounts. It plays a key role in keeping the muscles, nerves, bones, and blood sugar levels healthy. Magnesium also supports vital processes like energy production, blood pressure control, and the absorption of potassium and calcium by the cells.

Consider getting tested for magnesium when there are symptoms such as:

Muscle weakness or cramps
Numbness or tingling
Irregular heartbeat
Confusion
Slurred speech
Seizures

This test can also help detect conditions like hypermagnesemia (high magnesium levels) and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). It is often advised for pregnant women to check for preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure, which may result from low magnesium during the second or third trimester due to blood dilution.

Low magnesium may also lead to low calcium and potassium levels. So, doctors may also recommend this test if there are issues with calcium, phosphorus, or parathyroid hormone levels. This test helps monitor the body’s response to magnesium supplements and may be done alongside calcium and phosphorus tests.

No special preparation is required. But it is important to inform the doctor about all medications being taken, as some may affect test results. The doctor may ask to temporarily stop certain medicines before testing.

Test result ranges may vary slightly across laboratories. Speak with the doctor to understand what the result means. Based on the findings, they may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to manage health.

What is Magnesium used for?

The Magnesium test is done:

As part of a routine health checkup.
If symptoms of magnesium deficiency appear (e.g., muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, seizures).
When calcium or potassium test results are abnormal.
To evaluate conditions like kidney disease, gastrointestinal issues, uncontrolled diabetes, or alcoholism.
In pregnancy, especially when checking for signs of preeclampsia.
To monitor the effect of magnesium supplements.If symptoms of magnesium deficiency appear (e.g., muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, seizures).

What does Magnesium measure?

The Magnesium test determines the amount of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium enters the body through the diet and is absorbed by the small intestine and colon. Most of the magnesium is stored in the skeletal system, comprising the bones and joints, while minor amounts are present in the muscles and other soft tissues. Any fluctuation in the levels of magnesium can cause various health complications that may need medical intervention. Therefore, this test serves as an important diagnostic test that helps doctors detect any abnormalities in magnesium levels and formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

Interpreting Magnesium results

Interpretations

Normal range: 0.85 to 1.10 mmol/L (1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL approx.)

Hypomagnesia: Below 0.85 mmol/L (Less than 1.7 mg/dL approx.)

Hypermagnesia: Above 1.10 mmol/L (Above 2.2 mg/dL approx.)

Magnesium concentration in the body is maintained within a narrow normal range between 0.85 mmol/L and 1.10 mmol/L.

Hypomagnesia or low blood magnesium is indicated if magnesium concentration lies below the normal range.

Hypermagnesia or high blood magnesium is indicated if magnesium concentration lies above the normal range.

Frequently Asked Questions about Magnesium

Q. Why do I need the Magnesium test?

You may need this test if you experience symptoms like muscle weakness, seizures, or irregular heartbeat, or if you have health issues such as kidney problems, diabetes, or digestive disorders.

Q. Is there any risk with this test?

No, the test is generally safe. You may feel slight discomfort during the blood draw, but complications are rare.

Q. Do I need to fast?

No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before the test.

Q. How is the test done?

A healthcare provider will clean your skin and draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

Q. What are the signs of low magnesium levels?

Common signs include muscle cramps, weakness, poor appetite, confusion, and seizures.

Q. What causes magnesium deficiency?

Causes of magnesium deficiency may include a poor diet, type 2 diabetes, and digestive conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease.

Q. What foods are rich in magnesium?

Foods rich in magnesium include green leafy vegetables, bananas, nuts, seeds, beans, whole grains, cabbage, and broccoli.

Q. What other tests may be recommended with magnesium?

Depending on your results, your doctor may also advise a urine Magnesium test, a kidney function test, an electrolyte panel, or tests for calcium and phosphate levels.

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