Many people in the United States do not get enough magnesium from food alone, according to the U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements. Some people turn to magnesium supplements to boost their daily intake of this vitamin. Dietary magnesium and magnesium supplements are both unlikely to cause a swollen tongue for most people. Experiencing a swollen tongue after consuming magnesium may indicate an allergy to the mineral.
Magnesium Side Effects
You are unlikely to experience side effects from magnesium if you keep your intake less than the tolerable upper intake level of 350 milligrams a day. Exceeding this amount increases your risk of an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reaction of magnesium is diarrhea. Stomach discomfort or upset may also occur. Individuals with an allergy to magnesium may experience additional symptoms.
Magnesium Allergy
Experiencing a swollen tongue after taking magnesium may be a sign that you are allergic to the mineral. Other symptoms of an allergy may include nausea, vomiting or stomach cramps. If you are allergic, you will generally experience these symptoms within minutes of taking the magnesium. Although the gastrointestinal symptoms of an allergy are not typically a cause for concern, a swollen tongue can indicate a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis, also referred to as anaphylactic shock, can be life-threatening if left untreated. In addition to swelling of the tongue, you may also experience swelling of the lips, throat and face if you have this condition. It also may be difficult to breathe, or you may notice that you have an unusually fast or uneven heartbeat. Lightheadedness, dizziness, confusion, a sudden drop in blood pressure or fainting may also occur. Anaphylaxis is a condition that requires immediate medical attention, so call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room if you are displaying any of these symptoms.
Considerations
If you experience a swollen tongue after taking a magnesium supplement or eating a food rich in magnesium, it may not be the magnesium itself that is triggering the allergic reaction. Some people are allergic to inactive ingredients of supplements, which may be the case if you experience a swollen tongue after consuming a certain type of magnesium supplement but not others. Likewise, if a certain food always produces this reaction, but you can eat other foods rich in magnesium without suffering any side effects, you may only be allergic to that particular food and not the magnesium itself. A swollen tongue may also be caused by other conditions, such as rhabdomyoma, hyperthyroidism, Down syndrome, amyloidosis and acromegaly or a tongue injury or sore. Consult a doctor to determine the specific cause of your swollen tongue.
Member Comments