Your survival depends on an adequate supply of magnesium. Hundreds of metabolic reactions in the body require it, and your organs cannot function without it, according to Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute. Despite its essential role, only 25 g of magnesium is present in humans. A low magnesium level most often develops in people with severe burns, those who suffer from malabsorption because of intestinal conditions and those who abuse alcohol, according to MedlinePlus.
Early Symptoms
When a magnesium deficiency develops, the first noticeable signs often include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Other early signs of a low magnesium level include fatigue, difficulty sleeping, mental confusion, memory trouble, irritability and difficulty learning or concentrating, according to MedlinePlus. Another noticeable sign of a magnesium deficiency is muscle spasms or contractions.
Symptoms of Moderate Deficiency
As your magnesium deficiency progresses, you may notice changes to your heart--in particular, a more rapid heartbeat or coronary spasms, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Additional cardiac symptoms can include numbness and tingling sensations, seizures and personality changes. Early symptoms often persist, as well, so you may still experience muscle spasms and contractions and sleep and memory problems.
Symptoms of Severe Deficiency
People whose magnesium deficiency progresses to the point of becoming severe often develop other mineral deficiencies, as well. Low blood calcium levels--called hypocalcemia--and low blood potassium levels--called hypokalemia--often are present in people with severe magnesium deficiencies, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Muscle spasms and contractions will continue as the deficiency worsens, and you can also become delirious and begin suffering from hallucinations. Although magnesium deficiency is a serious condition requiring medical treatment, it alone is not life-threatening.
