Magnesium deficiency (medicine)

Magnesium deficiency refers to an absolute lack of magnesium, the result of numerous conditions. This can generally be remedied by an alteration of diet or oral supplements. However intravenous supplementation is necessary for more severe cases.

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Symptoms

Possible symptoms and pathologies as a result of magnesium deficiency are widespread, but may include: Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, Vitamin K deficiency, depressed immunity, depression, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, increased levels of stress, insomnia, migraine, cancer, ADHD, asthma, and allergies.

Incidence/prevalence

68% of the US population do not meet the US RDA for levels of magnesium.^[1]

Terminology

"Magnesium depletion" (ICD10 code E83.4) should be distinguished from hypomagnesemia, since the first refers to a disorder of magnesium metabolism, and is much more difficult to treat. However, in the past, the terms have sometimes been used interchangeably. Magnesium deficiency can be present without hypomagnesemia, and hypomagnesemia can be present without magnesium deficiency.

For a more detailed discussion on the subject of magnesium metabolism and causes of magnesium deficiency see hypomagnesemia.

References

1. ^ Community Nutrition Products and Services, Community Nutrition : CNMap. Retrieved on 2007-07-24.