For people with kidney failure, they are more likely to experience some metabolic disorders, and hyperphosphatemia happens to be such a manifestation. Here, we will introduce the causes and treatments in detail:

How does hyperphosphatemia occur in kidney failure patients?

In right condition, healthy kidneys can help preserve useful substances and excrete wastes, excess fluid, etc out of the body. However, when kidneys are damaged severely, extra phosphorus will build up in the body, resulting hyperphosphatemia.

Eventually, this abnormal sign will causes calcium to be taken from the bones, which weaken the bones or even lead to bone fracture. Besides, itchy skin, vascular calcification and other complications can also occur.

How to control phosphorus level in kidney failure?

1. Adequate dialysis Adequate dialysis is commonly used to control phosphorus level. Even if it can help remove extra phosphorus to some degree, the functions are limited.

2. Limit the intake of phosphorus In general, the intake of phosphorus should be no more than 700mg per day. However, as phosphorus mainly exist in protein, the intake of protein should be managed within 0.6-0.8g/kg per day. Meanwhile, some high quality protein foods are recommended, such as, lean meat, fish and so on. Remember the amount should be in moderation.

3. Phosphate binders Sometimes, doctors will prescribe patients with phosphate binders to reduce intestinal absorption of phosphorus. And these medications are usually taken with meals, otherwise, the efficacy will not be obvious.

4. Eat less foods loaded with phosphorus As foods high in phosphorus will worsen the condition, the following foods should be avoided:

Dairy products: milk, cheese, yoghurt, ice cream, beef, mutton.

Nuts and Beans: soya bean, sunflower seed, walnut, peanut, cocoa.

Drinks: soy milk, beer, cocoa, carbonated cola.

Others: bean curd, coconut, chocolate products.

If you are suffering from kidney failure and hyperphosphatemia, keep in mind to take treatments early. Otherwise, it will worsen the condition. Anything unclear, email us renal-disease@hotmail.com directly.