Hypermagnesemia/Hypomagnesemia

Question 1

Hypermagnesemia

Answer 1

Magnesium levels in the blood are too high (greater than 4 mEg/L)

Question 2

Symtoms

Answer 2

1. Mg inhibits Calcium influx
   -> affects impulse formation, neurotransmitter release,
   •inhibits musclecontraction •
2. Inhibits release of parathyroid hormone -> calcium levels fall -> hypocalcaemia
3. Alter electrical potential across cardiac cell membrane -> cardiac arrythmia eg. heart block // asystole

Question 3

Treatment

Answer 3

• Reduce intake
• Calcium gluconate injection
• Furosemide - promotes Mg excretion
• Haemodialysis

Question 4

Hypomagnessemia

Answer 4

Lower magnesium levels in the blood below 1 mg in blood

• also assoc with hypomagnesemia

Question 5

Diagnosis

Answer 5

• Measure Mg in blood

* 24 hour urine collection

Question 6

Treatment

Answer 6

• Low intake -> oral supplements

* Magnesium sulphate admin intravenously/intramuscularly