Hypermagnésémie

Hypermagnésémie refers to an elevated level of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. Normally, the kidneys are responsible for regulating magnesium levels, excreting excess amounts in the urine.

Hypermagnésémie can occur when the body retains too much magnesium. Common causes include kidney failure, as the kidneys are unable to effectively remove excess magnesium. Other contributing factors can be excessive intake of magnesium-containing medications, such as laxatives and antacids, or certain medical conditions that impair magnesium excretion. Dehydration can also concentrate magnesium levels.

The symptoms of hypermagnésémie are often dose-dependent and can range from mild to severe. Mild cases may present with nausea, vomiting, and lethargy. As magnesium levels rise, more serious symptoms can emerge, including muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, decreased reflexes, hypotension (low blood pressure), and an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). In very severe cases, hypermagnésémie can lead to coma and cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis is typically made through a blood test that measures serum magnesium levels. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and lowering magnesium levels. This may involve discontinuing magnesium-containing medications, administering intravenous fluids to help the kidneys excrete magnesium, and in severe cases, dialysis might be necessary to remove excess magnesium from the blood.