Allergic Reaction to Magnesium Chloride
Doctors sometimes prescribe magnesium chloride to patients suffering from low magnesium. However, allergic reactions to this supplement can be more severe than the original symptoms of low magnesium. Patients allergic to magnesium chloride must find alternative ways to raise their magnesium levels, such as diet and other means.
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Low Magnesium
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Magnesium is an essential mineral for health. Low magnesium can cause muscle cramps, depression and severe diarrhea, according to Drugs.com. Doctors often prescribe magnesium chloride to correct low magnesium levels. It comes in pill form and must be swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
Allergic Reaction
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If you already know you are allergic to magnesium chloride, you should not take this supplement. Symptoms of allergic reaction include hives, dizziness, breathing difficulties and swelling of the tongue or throat.
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What to Do
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If you break out in hives, call your doctor immediately. If you have difficulty breathing, or other severe allergic reactions, call emergency services. Advise emergency personnel you have taken magnesium chloride.
Reaction vs. Overdose
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Overdoses of magnesium chloride can produce similar symptoms to allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, dizziness and weakness, according to Drugs.com. To avoid poisoning, track when you take the pill and always swallow it whole instead of chewing. If you believe you have overdosed, call Poison Control or 911.
Alternatives
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Changing the patient's diet is how some doctors treat magnesium deficiency. You can increase magnesium intake through a diet rich in whole grains, leafy vegetables and nuts, according to the National Institute of Health. If you are allergic to magnesium chloride, you should also talk to your doctor about alternative medications that may raise magnesium levels.
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References
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