Signs & Symptoms of Anemia From Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium is an essential mineral nutrient, and it is required by every single organism on the planet. Without it, an organism will become sick and eventually die. Although magnesium salts are added to many foods, it is estimated that half of the world's population is magnesium deficient. There are many adverse side effects that result from not having enough magnesium in one's diet, with anemia being one of them. Here are the signs and symptoms of magnesium-deficiency anemia.

Lethargy

• As magnesium deficiency anemia manifests itself in an individual, one common symptom is lethargy. An individual usually feels run down, as if he needs to sleep all of the time. A complete lack of energy and little motivation to get normal tasks done is commonplace. A person normally feels weakened, as if having been sick or recovering from a previous illness.

Headaches

• As a person becomes more anemic, she may start to suffer from headaches. The frequency, duration and intensity of the headaches often worsen over time. These headaches can be mistaken for migraines, as feelings of dizziness can accompany them. If an individual has never had migraines up to that point, it is likely that anemia could be the cause.

Irregular Heartbeat and Chest Pain

• Another symptom of magnesium deficiency anemia is irregular heartbeat. Irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, is a very serious condition and should be treated by a doctor. Arrhythmia is noticeable as the heartbeat strays from a normal pattern, and quickens and slows at random intervals. The heart may speed up for no reason, and then skip a beat or slow down, or it may beat in a succession of irregular intervals. Arrhythmia is often accompanied by chest pain and can be extremely frightening to anyone suffering from it. You need to get to a hospital immediately if you suspect your heartbeat has become irregular or erratic, especially if you are experiencing chest pains!

Numbness in the extremities

• Anemia can also lead to a feeling of numbness in a person's arms, legs, fingers or toes. The feeling may begin as a slight tingling sensation, and progress to an overall feeling of numbness. This can be mistaken for a limb that has fallen asleep, as when a person sits or lies in awkward position. If the sensation persists even after having stood up and walked around for a few minutes, then a more serious condition from anemia may be responsible.