Magnesium (Mg): Results
Content provided by Healthwise
Results
A magnesium test measures the level of magnesium in the blood. Normal values may vary from lab to lab. Results are usually available in 1 to 2 days.
Normal
| Adult: | 1.3–2.1 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L) or 0.65–1.05 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) |
|---|---|
| Child: | 1.4–1.7 mEq/L or 0.7–0.85 mmol/L |
| Newborn: | 1.4–2 mEq/L or 0.7–1.0 mmol/L |
Many conditions can change magnesium levels.Your doctor will talk with you about any abnormal results that may be related to your symptoms and medical history.
High values
High magnesium levels may be caused by:
- Dehydration.
- Diseases of the adrenal glands, such as Addison's disease.
- An overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism).
- An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).
- Kidney failure.
- Medicine that contains magnesium, such as antacids and laxatives.
Low values
Low magnesium levels may be caused by:
- Alcohol abuse or withdrawal.
- Complications from diabetes, such as diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Diseases that block with the way food is absorbed in the intestines, such as sprue.
- High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia).
- Infection and swelling of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
- Kidney disease.
- Long-term diarrhea.
- Not getting enough magnesium in the foods you eat.
- Problems with pregnancy, such as toxemia of pregnancy (preeclampsia).
- Severe burns.
- Starvation or severe dieting.
- An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).
- Underactive parathyroid glands (hypoparathyroidism).
| Last updated: | April 17, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Brian D. O'Brien, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
