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Ency. home > Disease > M > Milk-alkali syndrome

Milk-alkali syndrome   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Definition:

An acquired condition including high levels of calcium (hypercalcemia) and a shift in the body's acid/base balance towards alkaline (metabolic alkalosis).

Causes and Risks

Milk-alkali syndrome is caused by excessive consumption of milk (which is high in calcium) and soluble alkali-like antacids, especially sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) over a prolonged period of time. 

This can cause calcium deposits in the kidneys and other tissues. This condition is exacerbated by the consumption of Vitamin D. Milk-alkali syndrome is often a side effect of treating a peptic ulcer. Nausea, headache, weakness, confusion, and kidney damage may result.

Ency. home > Disease > M > Milk-alkali syndrome

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