Breshna Sediqi Professor, Duran

Electrolytes Assignment 2/10/18

Hypomagnesemia

Magnesium is the intracellular electrolyte, it is required for ATP to function. ATP is required for
the active transport of Sodium and Potassium across the cell membrane. Any disturbance to K and
Phosphorus causes disturbance to Mg serum level. Mg also influences PTH which regulated Ca level.
Mg normal serum level is between 1.5-2.6 mEq/L.

Mg is used to regulate muscle contraction, its main effect is to relax the muscle and reduce its
activity.

Causes of Hypomagnesemia serum level below 1.5 mEq/L

 Most common cause is chronic alcoholism- pushes Mg in urine , poor diet, poor
intestinal absorption
 Decreased intake and absorption of Mg- ex, diarrhea, vomiting , NG suctioning, TPN
solutions deficient in Mg due to new cell taking in the Mg from serum hence aggressive
refeeding of starving patient.
 Osmotic diuresis in diabetic patients.
 Insulin causes mg to go inside the cell.

Sign & Symptoms:

 Inhibits PTH which can cause low Calcium levels in blood. Leading to hypocalcemia –
Tetany.
 Causes insomnia, hypertension, and confusion.
 Decreased GI contraction leading to N/V, dysphagia, constipation, Abdomen distention.

Treatment:

 Oral intake of Mg if passed the swallow test with water. May cause diarrhea. May
administer antidiarrheal medication prn.
 May give IV Mg but not too much or fast can cause Hypermagnesemia.
 Patients in refeeding should include Mg in solution.
 If Hypocalcemia occurs give Ca to prevent tetany along with Mg.
 Foods that are rich in Mg such as green leafy vegetables, potatoes, meat, seafood,
whole grains like nuts and legumes, chocolate and fruits.
 Patient that developed Hypocalcemia due to Hypomagnesaemia should be put in
seizure precautions.
 Educate patient about alcohol consumption and direct them to proper services to seek
help.