Low Magnesium

[Neona]

Finally managed to get a blood test for magnesium levels which turned out to be very low. Apparently carbo/taxyl causes this. I had been having foot cramps since my op and restless leg syndrome up the kazoo. I had a 2 1/2 hour magnesium i fusion after my chemo and have to have a further blood test. Just thought this might be useful, Wendy

[Tesla_7US]

Hi Neona, I have the same problem. Started 500 mg chelated magnesium once a day 3/4 way through carbo/taxol. Finished chemo 10 months ago, magnesium levels still low, still taking it. Important to monitor magnesium after treatment as supplement may be needed permanently. Magnesium also makes one poop!

[Hidden in reply to Tesla_7US]

Hi Ladies, I do a foot soak in epsom salts which contain magnesium and you soak the feet for twenty minutes minimum. Also you can use it in bath water, it does actually help you poop

[Neona in reply to Hidden]

I think I will try this too-many thanks.

[Neona in reply to Tesla_7US]

Oh my and I was hoping to be taking less pills! Illiostomy also affecting my healthy food intake and they won't refer me for reversal until after my scan in 3 months time. I have a magnesium spray which I think I will keep using. Many thanks for this info.

[Hidden in reply to Neona]

Hi again

I too have an ileostomy I also took magnesium drops but as mentioned my levels came back, have had several checks, and back to normal. I use BioCare drops particularly VitB12 as that is lost because no iliac. I can't tolerate acidic food so also take VitC drops and Multi Vit. Have had my 'Pet' onboard for 4 years through tumour blockage..

Take care

Sue

[ShropshireJo in reply to Tesla_7US]

Thanks for really useful information. I was told yesterday that my magnesium levels were still low five months after chemo. This was at a non cancer related consultation about a cough. Unfortunately my Oncologist had not said anything about it at my last appointment three weeks ago. Supplements start again today. Jo x

[Hidden]

Hi Neona

I too had low magnesium levels during my carbo/taxol had 2 infusions for the last 2 rounds. Once off chemo levels came back. I used the magnesium spray on my legs at night to ease the cramps.

Hope things start to get better - take care

Sue

[Rlenesue]

Yes, carbo/taxoL does a lot of wonderful things to us... low magnesium, potassium, wbc low, loss of hair, dignity, and pride. Don't you get blood work before each chemo treatment? If you're finished with chemo, eat magnesium and potassium rich foods until levels come up.

[Neona in reply to Rlenesue]

Yes blood test each time but I had to ask and ask before I got the magnesium done. Don't know why it is not done as routine-then it wouldn't have got this low!