Hypomagnesemia in acute and chronic illness.

Magnesium deficit is associated with several acute and chronic illnesses. Of major concern is the association between cardiovascular problems, such as myocardial infarction, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and hypomagnesemia. In addition, evidence is mounting regarding the relationship between Type II Diabetes Mellitus, and magnesium deficit. The American diet is low in magnesium, and with modern water systems, very little is ingested in the drinking water. A review of the state of the science in relation to literature on magnesium follows, as well as nursing interventions crucial to managing magnesium deficit.