MAGNESIUM TEST

Description

WHAT IS A MAGNESIUM LAB TEST?

The Magnesium Blood Test measures the level of magnesium present in your blood.

AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?

No.

WHAT IS THE PRICE OF A MAGNESIUM LAB TEST?

$49.00

*Price may vary by location – contact your local ANY LAB TEST NOW®

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY LAB TEST RESULTS?

Test results generally take between 24 to 72 business hours after your specimen is collected.

DESCRIPTION:

Magnesium is a critical electrolyte that is necessary for proper muscle, nerve and enzyme function and is necessary for the body to make and use energy.  It also assists in the movement of other electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, into and out of cells.  Low levels of magnesium are associated with cardiac arrhythmia.

The majority of magnesium in the body is found in bones and inside cells so the amount of magnesium in the blood is normally very small.  Magnesium levels can be easily increased through supplements or diet.  Foods that contain magnesium include whole grain products, leafy green vegetables, nuts and beans.  Some studies have also found that consuming foods rich in magnesium reduces the risk of stroke.

WHY DO I NEED MY MAGNESIUM LEVEL CHECKED?

Do you have heart problems or are you experiencing muscle twitches or weakness?

Low levels of magnesium can cause several health issues including nerve and muscle problems, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, slurred speech and even seizures.  Most importantly, low levels can cause life threatening heart rhythm problems.   People with existing cardiovascular disease should have their magnesium checked to ensure they are getting enough to prevent cardiac arrhythmia.

Magnesium and calcium levels in the body are closely linked so the test can be used to determine underlying causes of chronic, unexplained low calcium or potassium levels that are not improving with supplements.

TEST DETAILS:

NORMAL RANGE:

Adults:                  1.8-2.6 mEq/L or 0.74-1.07 mmol/L

Children:              1.7-2.1 mEq/L or 0.70-0.86 mmol/L

HIGH RESULTS INDICATE:

High results may indicate dehydration, problems with the adrenal, thyroid or parathyroid glands, kidney failure or may be the result of taking large amounts of antacids or laxatives that contain magnesium.

LOW RESULTS INDICATE:

Low results may indicate a deficiency due to inadequate diet, alcohol abuse or withdrawal, diseases that block absorption of food in the intestines, kidney disease, pancreatitis (infection or swelling of the pancreas), complications from diabetes or underactive parathyroid glands.

WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN SHOULD I SEE IF MY TEST RESULTS ARE OUT-OF-RANGE?

For test results that are out of range, you should see your primary care physician.