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Potassium phosphates sources, health risks

Thursday, October 12, 2017 by

Potassium phosphates are inorganic salts used medicinally to improve kidney function. It is prescribed by nephrologists to patients who suffer from excessive kidney stones. Potassium phosphates make the urine more acidic, which breaks down toxins and forces the patient to naturally expel waste through urine. The compound is also given as a dietary supplement to replace electrolytes.

As with most derived medicines, potassium phosphates can cause unwanted side effects — some of which require immediate medical attention. Poisoning from potassium phosphate usually manifests itself right away, with acute symptoms such as a burning or crawling sensation in the gut, dizziness, loss of muscle movement, and a weakness and heaviness of the legs.

Potassium phosphates are therefore heavily regulated by health groups. Laymen should not source the compound without speaking to their doctors first.

Harmful effects that can be caused by potassium phosphate

Potassium phosphate can be a beautiful example of having “too much of a good thing”. It is extremely effective in alleviating kidney conditions but an excessive consumption of it can cause the organ to overreact and become damaged. Potassium phosphate can also lead to high levels of phosphorous in the blood. This is a condition called hyperphosphatemia and can include such symptoms as joint pain, muscle cramps, and perioral numbness.

Potassium phosphate is never given to people with an existing heart condition, liver disease, pancreas disorder, or abnormalities in the thyroid. Pregnant women are also advised against taking potassium chloride. There is no evidence that links the compound to fetal underdevelopment or abnormality, but obstetricians caution their patients to err on the side of caution.

Some people can experience an immediate reaction to potassium phosphate. Please seek emergency medical help if you begin to have difficulties breathing, start to swell around the face, lips, or throat, or feel your body begin to shake. Prolonged exposure to potassium chloride can also induce continual diarrhea. Kidney damage can likewise be characterized with difficulties in urinating (or having an excessive amount of urine), swelling in the limbs, and feeling tired.

It is extremely important that people follow their doctor’s direction diligently. Do not take this compound in larger or smaller amounts than prescribed or longer than recommended.

Patients are also encouraged to take frequent blood and urine tests while on potassium phosphate to ensure that their kidneys are functioning properly.

Body systems harmed by potassium phosphate

Potassium phosphate can both heal and damage the kidneys. Taken in its recommended, medicinal doses, it helps people achieve proper organ function. That said, excessive amounts of it, or the improper administration of potassium phosphate can lead to kidney damage.

Where to learn more

Summary

Potassium phosphate is used to remove kidney stones and improve electrolyte balance. Over-consumption of the chemical, however, can trigger the opposite effect and cause damage and an abundance of potassium in the system.

Sources include:

PubChem.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov

EverydayHealth.com

Drugs.com



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