Milk-alkali syndrome

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Milk-alkali syndrome
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Nausea, vomiting, confusion, polyuria, polydipsia, kidney failure
Complications	Hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis, acute kidney injury
Onset	Rapid or gradual
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Excessive intake of calcium and alkali
Risks	Use of calcium carbonate supplements, antacids, osteoporosis treatment
Diagnosis	Based on blood tests showing high calcium and alkaline levels
Differential diagnosis	Hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, vitamin D toxicity
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Discontinuation of calcium and alkali intake, intravenous fluids, diuretics
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with treatment, but can lead to permanent kidney damage if untreated
Frequency	Increasing due to widespread use of calcium supplements
Deaths	N/A

ECG Intervals

Milk-alkali syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when a person ingests excessive amounts of milk and alkali, which are often found in dietary and antacid supplements. The syndrome was first identified in the early 20th century when milk and alkali were used as a treatment for peptic ulcer disease. However, it is now more commonly associated with the overuse of calcium and antacid supplements.

Symptoms

The symptoms of milk-alkali syndrome can vary widely, but often include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Kidney failure
• Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood)
• Metabolic alkalosis (a condition in which the body's pH level is excessively high)

Causes

Milk-alkali syndrome is caused by the ingestion of excessive amounts of milk and alkali. This can occur through the overuse of dietary supplements or antacids that contain these substances. The syndrome is more common in older adults who take calcium and antacid supplements for osteoporosis or heartburn.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of milk-alkali syndrome is often made based on the patient's history of excessive milk and alkali intake, as well as the presence of symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and kidney failure. Blood tests may also be used to confirm the diagnosis, with results typically showing high levels of calcium and a high pH level.

Treatment

The treatment for milk-alkali syndrome typically involves stopping the intake of milk and alkali, as well as treating any underlying conditions that may have contributed to the development of the syndrome. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Prevention

Prevention of milk-alkali syndrome involves avoiding the excessive intake of milk and alkali. This can be achieved by following the recommended daily intake for these substances and avoiding the overuse of dietary supplements and antacids.

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