highmagnesium

Highmagnesium, commonly referred to as hypermagnesemia, is an abnormally elevated level of magnesium in the blood. Normal serum magnesium is about 1.7–2.2 mg/dL (0.7–0.9 mmol/L). Elevated levels can interfere with neuromuscular and cardiovascular function and may indicate underlying health problems or excessive magnesium intake.

Causes of high magnesium include reduced renal excretion due to kidney failure or advanced chronic kidney disease, which impairs the body's ability to eliminate magnesium. Other causes are excessive intake of magnesium-containing medications or supplements (such as certain antacids or laxatives), prolonged administration of magnesium sulfate in obstetric or anesthetic settings, and, less commonly, certain endocrine or metabolic disorders. In hospitalized patients, intravenous magnesium for therapeutic purposes can lead to hypermagnesemia if kidney function is impaired or dosing is miscalculcated.

Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening and progress with rising magnesium levels. Early signs can include nausea, flushing, and fatigue. More advanced hypermagnesemia can cause diminished deep tendon reflexes, lethargy, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, depressed respiration, and in severe cases cardiac arrest or coma.

Diagnosis relies on a measurement of serum magnesium, often alongside assessment of renal function, electrolyte status, and current medications. Electrocardiography may be used to detect conduction abnormalities.

Management depends on severity and the underlying cause. Mild cases may require stopping magnesium-containing products and monitoring. Moderate to severe hypermagnesemia may require intravenous calcium gluconate as a membrane stabilizer, aggressive hydration, and, if kidney function is compromised, diuretics or dialysis to remove excess magnesium. Prevention includes mindful use of magnesium-containing medicines, particularly in individuals with impaired kidney function.

In agriculture and geology, high magnesium describes soils or minerals with elevated Mg relative to calcium, which can influence soil structure and plant nutrition. Corrective measures may involve adjusting Mg:Ca balance through soil amendments.