Magnesium Sulfate Toxicity Symptoms

Magnesium sulfate is a chemical compound, which is a combination of magnesium, oxygen and sulfur. Some people also refer to it as epsom salt. Like other elements, magnesium sulfate is also required by our body for its proper functioning. But, it is required in right amounts. Excess or lack of magnesium can have an adverse effect on the body. Magnesium sulfate is a salt of magnesium, that is used for the treatment of constipation and heartburn. Consumption of this salt helps in increasing the level of magnesium present in the body. If magnesium rich foods are consumed, the body gets the optimum amount of magnesium required by the body. Excess amount of magnesium in the body can show as magnesium sulfate toxicity symptoms.

Magnesium Sulfate Toxicity Signs and Symptoms

• A magnesium sulfate toxicity can have an adverse effect on the circulatory system.
• Toxicity symptoms of magnesium sulfate also include visual disturbances and facial flushing.
• In some cases, it can cause nasal stuffiness and chest pain.
• Another magnesium sulfate toxicity symptom is gastrointestinal upset.
• Magnesium sulfate toxicity can also lead to urinary retention.
• At the magnesium sulfate injection site, tissue necrosis can take place.
• If central nervous system (CNS) depressants and magnesium sulfate are used at the same time, then it results in enhanced CNS depressant effect.
• Large amounts of magnesium sulfate in the body can also cause hypotension and renal impairment.
• Changes in the ECG might be observed because of magnesium sulfate toxicity.
• Some people might also experience stress due to magnesium sulfate toxicity.
• Lethargy and muscle weakness is also observed in some cases.
• It can also cause palpitation and increase in the rate of heartbeats.
• It can also give rise to pulmonary edema, where the lungs are filled with fluids. This side effect of magnesium sulfate can prove fatal.
• A decrease in the bone density might also be observed.
• It leads to increase of calcium content in the urine.
• Muscular hyperexcitability is also a magnesium sulfate toxicity symptom.
• In some cases, it can cause intestinal obstruction.

Magnesium sulfate toxicity in pregnancy can cause an increase in the osmotic gradient which is present in the small intestine. This leads to the absorption of water in the intestines, thus causing distention. It also triggers bowel evacuation. This happens because of the antacid action, wherein the hydrochloric acid present in the stomach forms water, thus increasing the gastric pH. In some cases, it also blocks the transmission of peripheral neuromuscular impulses and depresses the CNS. This takes place because of the anticonvulsant action. Read more on:

• Magnesium Sulfate Side Effects
• Symptoms of Low Magnesium

When taken in right amounts, magnesium sulfate can be beneficial. Magnesium sulfate is required for the formation of proteins which helps in keeping the bones healthy. It also helps in soothing the muscles and relieving the muscle soreness, reducing inflammation, flushing out the toxins as well as improving the overall health of the heart. It also assists in enzyme and nerve function. Magnesium is an important element which helps in muscular excitability and neurochemical transmission.

If you observe any of the magnesium sulfate toxicity symptoms mentioned above, then visit a medical practitioner immediately, and also make sure that you discontinue its consumption if advised by the doctor.