What is a normal magnesium RBC level?
A normal RBC magnesium level ranges between 4.2 and 6.8 mg/dL. However, some experts recommend aiming for a minimum level of 6.0 mg/dL on the RBC test. While not commonly available, some places use the Non-invasive Intracellular Mineral-Electrolyte Analysis (EXA) test to determine tissue levels of magnesium.
What can low magnesium mean?
Over time, low magnesium can weaken your bones, give you bad headaches, make you feel nervous, and even hurt your heart. It can also lead to low levels of other important minerals like calcium and potassium. High levels of magnesium are much less common than low levels.
What blood test checks for low magnesium?
The RBC blood test, also known as the magnesium blood test, is used to measure the level of magnesium found in the red blood cells floating in the blood serum. The test is usually only ordered when there is reason to believe that an individual might have a magnesium deficiency.
What is the ideal magnesium level?
The normal range for blood magnesium level is 1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL (0.85 to 1.10 mmol/L). Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.
Does a blood test show magnesium levels?
A magnesium blood test is used to check the level of magnesium in your blood. Levels that are too low are known as hypomagnesemia or magnesium deficiency. This is more common than levels that are too high, which is called hypermagnesemia.
What diseases cause low magnesium?
Chronic low magnesium state has been associated with a number of chronic diseases including diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and osteoporosis. The use of magnesium as a therapeutic agent in asthma, myocardial infarction, and pre-eclampsia is also discussed.
How do I know if my body needs magnesium?
A: One of the first signs of magnesium deficiency is often fatigue. You may notice muscle spasms, weakness or stiffness as well. Loss of appetite and nausea are other common symptoms in the early stages. However, you may not notice any symptoms at all in the beginning.