Serum Magnesium measures magnesium levels in the blood, an essential mineral involved in muscle contraction, nerve function, heart rhythm, and bone health. Magnesium also plays a role in glucose metabolism and blood pressure regulation.

Deficiency is common but often overlooked, especially in people with gastrointestinal disorders or long-term medication use.

Evaluate muscle cramps or weakness

Investigate abnormal heart rhythms

Assess electrolyte imbalance

Monitor chronic kidney disease

Evaluate malnutrition or alcoholism

Low magnesium can worsen calcium and potassium imbalance. Severe deficiency may cause arrhythmias or seizures.

Muscle twitching or cramps

Fatigue

Irregular heartbeat

Neurological symptoms

Preparation

No fasting required

Inform doctor about supplements

Results Interpretation

Normal: ~1.7–2.4 mg/dL

Low: Malabsorption, diuretics

High: Kidney failure

FAQs

Can stress lower magnesium? – Indirectly, yes.

Is magnesium checked routinely? – Often overlooked.

Can supplements affect results? – Yes.

Is fasting needed? – No.

Does kidney disease raise magnesium? – Yes.