An acquired condition including high levels of calcium (hypercalcemia) and a shift in the body's acid/base balance towards alkaline (metabolic alkalosis).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
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.
Signs and tests
Calcium deposits within the tissue of the kidney (nephrocalcinosis) may be seen on X-rays, computer tomography (CT scans), or ultrasound. Blood chemistries, blood gas tests, and serum calcium tests in patients with a history of chronic alkali/antacid use and/or high milk consumption are often necessary to make the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment involves reducing or eliminating milk and antacid consumption. If severe kidney failure has occurred, the damage may be irreparable.
Expectations (prognosis)
This condition is often reversible if kidney function remains normal. Severe prolonged cases may lead to permanent renal failure, requiring dialysis.
Complications
The most common complications include: kidney stones, calcinosis (calcium deposits in tissues), and potentially, kidney failure.
Prevention
Milk alkali syndrome is now very uncommon because non-antacid treatments for indigestion, gastric ulcers, and peptic ulcer disease have replaced most excessive antacid use. If you do use large quantities of antacids, don't drink large amounts of milk, and tell your doctor about your digestive problems.