Hypomagnesmia may never be a headline-grabber like calcium or iron, but it is important in many biological processes. One of the severe conditions that relates to low levels of magnesium is Hypomagnesemia, which can cause tetany — an acute condition of spasms of pain and convulsions.
What is Hypomagnesemia?
Hypomagnesemia is a condition where abnormally low magnesium levels are found in the blood. Magnesium is crucial for:
- Nerve and muscle function
- Enzyme activity
- Heart rhythm regulation
- Bone health
When the magnesium level falls significantly, the neuromuscular system becomes hyperexcitable, resulting in tetany, marked by muscle cramps, spasms, and even seizures.
What is Tetany?
Tetany is a clinical syndrome in which muscles enter involuntary contraction owing to heightened neuromuscular excitability. It may be caused by:
- Low magnesium (Hypomagnesemia)
- Low calcium (Hypocalcemia)
- Alkalosis (elevated blood pH)
Causes of Hypomagnesemia
In Humans:
- Chronic diarrhea or vomiting
- Alcoholism
- Poor diet or malnutrition
- Kidney disease (magnesium wasting)
- Diuretics or certain antibiotics
- Uncontrolled diabetes
In Animals (particularly ruminants such as cattle and sheep):
- Grass tetany (occurs in spring when animals feed on lush, low-magnesium pastures)
- High potassium or nitrogen fertilizers (hinder magnesium absorption)
- Cold, wet weather (reduces magnesium uptake from soil)
- Lactating animals require greater magnesium requirements
Symptoms of Hypomagnesemia & Tetany
In Humans:
- Muscle spasms and cramps (particularly in legs and arms)
- Tremors or twitching
- Numbness or tingling
- Seizures
- Fatigue, confusion, or changes in mood
- Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
In Animals:
- Nervousness or excitement
- Staggering or clumsy movement
- Muscle tremors
- Convulsions
- Sudden death or collapse in severe cases
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is:
- Serum magnesium test
- Blood levels of calcium and potassium
- Urine tests (for evaluation of loss of magnesium)
In animals, diagnosis can be established based on clinical presentation, diet history, and response to treatment
Treatment of Hypomagnesemia
In Humans:
- Magnesium supplements (oral or intravenous, as appropriate for severity)
- Treat the underlying issue (e.g., discontinue magnesium-wasting medication)
- Regular check of electrolytes
In Animals:
- Injection of magnesium sulfate (subcutaneous or intravenous in urgent cases)
- Oral magnesium supplements in food or water
- Preventive pasture maintenance (magnesium-replenishing supplements or licks)
Prevention Tips
For Humans:
- Eat magnesium-packed food: leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, beans, bananas
- Avoid excessive alcohol
- Drink plenty of water
- Check magnesium when taking diuretics or chemotherapy
For Animals:
- Offer magnesium-packed supplements during risk periods (early spring)
- Avoid rich pastures rich in nitrogen/potassium with supplementary magnesium
- Regularly monitor high-risk animals (lactating ewes or cows)
Why Does My Dog Pant at Night?
Hypomagnesemia (Tetany) – FAQs
Hypomagnesemia refers to abnormally low levels of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is essential for nerve, muscle, and heart function.
Tetany is a condition involving muscle cramps, spasms, or tremors due to increased nerve excitability. It commonly results from low levels of magnesium, calcium, or changes in blood pH.
When magnesium is low, the neuromuscular system becomes overactive, leading to involuntary muscle contractions, the hallmark of tetany.
Yes, if severe or untreated, it can lead to seizures, arrhythmias, or sudden death — especially in animals. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Yes. In livestock, spring and early summer are high-risk periods due to lush but magnesium-deficient grass. In humans, risk increases with certain medical conditions, medications, or poor nutrition.
Conclusion
Hypomagnesemia and tetany are severe but controllable conditions both in humans and animals. They can be prevented from causing serious complications, such as seizures or abrupt death, if early detection and treatment are undertaken. Regardless of whether you are a healthcare professional, a learner, or an animal owner, knowing the signs and prevention measures can make a significant difference.
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