| Deficiencies of potassium, magnesium and phosphorus
usually arise together, thus confusing the entire picture. Causes
Deficient intake of magnesium, alimentary loss of magnesium through vomiting,
intestinal dysfunction or urinary loss of magnesium and hyperparathyroidism may lead to
deficiency of magnesium.
Signs and symptoms
The common presenting features are lethargy, depression, muscle weakness, depressed
tendon reflexes.
Prevention and treatment
Good nutrition prevents magnesium deficiency. 3-4 bananas a day provide a rich,
convenient, and palatable source of magnesium. In the case of a clinical deficiency, 2 ml
of 50% magnesium sulphate is injected intramuscularly twice a day.
Magnesium
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