What is a symptom of hypomagnesemia?

Study for the Certified Specialist in Pediatrics Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare to excel!

A symptom of hypomagnesemia is muscle twitching. This occurs because magnesium plays a crucial role in neuromuscular function. When magnesium levels are low, the normal balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters is disrupted, leading to increased neuromuscular excitability. As a result, individuals may experience muscle twitching, cramps, or spasms.

In contrast, dehydration does not directly relate to hypomagnesemia, although electrolyte imbalances can occasionally happen in dehydrated patients. Increased energy is not associated with low magnesium levels; in fact, fatigue or weakness may occur due to the body's impaired energy metabolism when magnesium is deficient. A skin rash also does not typically indicate hypomagnesemia; rather, skin manifestations are more commonly linked to other conditions or deficiencies. Therefore, muscle twitching stands out as the symptom directly associated with low magnesium levels.

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