Hypomagnesemia is characterized by magnesium levels lower than which value?

Hypomagnesemia is characterized by a serum magnesium level that falls below 1.5 mEq/L. This level is significant because magnesium plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, including muscle contraction, nerve function, and energy production. A magnesium level under this threshold indicates a deficiency that can lead to a range of clinical symptoms, including muscle cramps, seizures, and arrhythmias.

Understanding the normal range of magnesium levels is essential for identifying hypomagnesemia. Normal serum magnesium levels typically range from about 1.5 to 2.5 mEq/L. Therefore, any measurement below 1.5 is clinically relevant and considered a state of hypomagnesemia.

This level of detail helps in recognizing the potential for complications associated with low magnesium levels and underscores the importance of monitoring and managing electrolyte imbalances in patients, especially in those with conditions that may predispose them to such deficiencies.