Phosphorus is a mineral that we obtain mainly through food and that participates in the correct formation of bones and teeth, helps to process the body’s energy and takes care of muscles and nerves for their proper functioning. In general, blood phosphorus levels should be between 2.5 and 4.5 mg / dl.
In some cases these values may appear high, which is known as hyperphosphatemia , being the indicator that something is not working well in our body or that we are making a mistake in the diet we eat. In this FastlyHealarticle we explain what are the causes of high phosphorus in the blood and the recommended treatment
Table of Contents
Causes of high blood phosphorus
The levels of high phosphorus are detected by a blood test and may be due to the following causes:
- Kidney failure : the kidneys are responsible for eliminating excess phosphorus in the body, so a malfunction of these organs can cause the problem. It is one of the main causes of this condition, so in our article kidney failure: causes, symptoms and treatment we explain what you need to know about this condition.
- Hypoparathyroidism : is a disorder in which the parathyroid glands, located next to the thyroid gland, do not secrete enough of the hormone PTH, which participates in the regulation of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D levels.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis : occurs in people with diabetes when their body is not able to take advantage of glucose as an energy source and uses fat for it, breaking it down and accumulating chemicals called ketones. One of its symptoms is the concentration of phosphorus in the blood.
- Calcium and magnesium deficiencies or excess vitamin D in the body can also cause an increase in phosphorus levels.
- The consumption of certain drugs that contain phosphate, such as laxatives, can promote the development of hyperphosphatemia.
- Other problems such as severe infections, cell death caused by chemotherapy, or muscle damage caused by strenuous exercise can also affect phosphorus levels.
Due to the wide variety of causes of this condition, to determine the origin of the problem it is essential to see a doctor .
Treatment for high blood phosphorus
The hyperphosphatemia no symptoms , so the only way to discover it is through periodic blood tests. When the levels do not exceed 9 mg / dl, the doctor may decide to administer aluminum hydroxide in low doses to control the presence of phosphorus in the body. However, there are studies that show its toxicity when consumed in excess and therefore many professionals prefer not to run that risk. As an alternative, they usually prescribe calcium carbonate tablets, which also helps to regulate the amount of phosphorus in the blood.
Also, at FastlyHealwe give you some practical advice to keep in mind to improve your levels of this mineral in the body:
- If you suffer from diabetes or any disease of the liver, kidneys or heart, do not forget to discuss it with your doctor.
- You should also let him know what medications you take to treat this condition.
- Try to eat a balanced diet , stay well hydrated and exercise daily, no matter how mild it may be, even a walk can increase your well-being.
- Get regular checkups and blood tests so your doctor can keep track of your phosphorus levels.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.