Magnesium Urine Test, 24-Hour

What is the purpose of this test?

The Magnesium Urine Test, 24-Hourmeasures the amount of magnesium your body excretes in urine over a full 24-hour period. Magnesium is a vital mineral that supports hundreds of body functions, including muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm, bone health, and energy production. By collecting urine for an entire day, this test provides a more accurate picture of how your body processes and eliminates magnesium, which helps detect imbalances that might not show up in a blood test alone.

This test is especially useful for identifying conditions like magnesium deficiency or excess magnesium (hypermagnesemia). It helps doctors understand whether low magnesium levels are due to poor dietary intake, problems absorbing magnesium in the gut, or increased loss through the kidneys. It can also help monitor individuals taking magnesium supplements or diuretics, as well as people with disorders that affect mineral balance such as diabetes, alcoholism, or chronic diarrhea. When used alongside other tests like blood magnesium levels, this urine test provides valuable insight into your electrolyte balance and kidney function.

Who should get this test?

The Magnesium Urine Test, 24-Hour may be helpful for:

• Individuals with symptoms of magnesium deficiency or excess
• People with a history of kidney problems or electrolyte imbalances
• Patients with unexplained muscle cramps, weakness, or heart palpitations
• Those with chronic diarrhea, Crohn’s disease, or other GI conditions
• People with diabetes, especially if blood sugar is not well controlled
• Individuals who consume large amounts of alcohol regularly
• People taking medications like diuretics or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• Patients being monitored for magnesium supplementation or toxicity

When should I order the Magnesium Urine Test, 24-Hour?

Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or exposure concerns related to magnesium imbalance.

Symptoms to consider:

• Itchy or red skin rashes, especially where metal contact occurs.
• Respiratory issues, like difficulty breathing or persistent coughing.
• Nausea, stomach pain, or other digestive issues.
• Chronic fatigue or unexplained muscle weakness.
• Joint pain or swelling without other clear causes.

If you have these symptoms or suspect low magnesium or excess magnesium, the Magnesium Urine Test, 24-Hour can provide useful information to guide you and your doctor in managing your mineral levels and supporting your overall health.