MILK-ALKALI SYNDROME

Milk-alkali syndrome is a condition in which there is a high level of calcium in the body (hypercalcemia). This causes a shift in the body's acid/base balance toward alkaline (metabolic alkalosis). As a result, there can be a loss of kidney function.

CAUSES

Milk-alkali syndrome is almost always caused by taking too many calcium supplements, usually in the form of calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate is a common calcium supplement. It is often taken to prevent or treat bone loss (osteoporosis). Calcium carbonate is also an ingredient found in antacids (such as Tums).

A high level of vitamin D in the body, such as from taking supplements, can worsen milk-alkali syndrome.

Calcium deposits in the kidneys and in other tissues can occur in milk-alkali syndrome.

SYMPTOMS

In the beginning, the condition usually has no symptoms (asymptomatic). When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Back, middle of the body, and low back pain in the kidney area (related to kidney stones)
• Confusion, strange behavior
• Constipation
• Depression
• Excessive urination
• Fatigue
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Other problems that can result from kidney failure

EXAMS AND TESTS

Calcium deposits within the tissue of the kidney (nephrocalcinosis) may be seen on:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• Ultrasound

HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Homoeopathy today is a rapidly growing system and is being practiced all over the world. It strength lies in its evident effectiveness as it takes a holistic approach towards the sick individual through promotion of inner balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels. When milk alkali syndrome  is concerned there are many effective medicines available in Homoeopathy , but the selection depends upon the individuality of the patient , considering mental and physical symptoms.

THLASPI BURA PASTORIS --Renal colic. Accumulation of gravel. Brick dust sediment. Urine heavy, phosphatic. Dysuria & spasmodic retension. Renal & vesical irritation. Urethritis, urine runs away in little jets. Haematuria & albuminuria.

HYDRANGEA - Renal calculi, gravel, profuse deposit of white amorphous salts in urine. Renal colic, sharp pain in loins, especially left. Burning in urethra & frequent desire. Urine hard to start. Bloody urine, heavy deposit of mucus. Great thirst with abdominal symptoms.

PIPERAZINUM- Urinary calculi, uric acid diathesis. Constant backache. Urine scanty. Rheumatic urethritis.

Other helpful remedy: sarsaparilla, lycopodium, berberis vul., cantharis, equisetum etc.