fbpx
phosphorus monitoring

Why is Monitoring Phosphorus Important in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and Dialysis?

10 Things ESRD CKD and Dialysis patients need to know about Phosphorus

  1. Phosphorus is a very common and important mineral element in the body, symbol P.
  2. Phosphorus is found in meat, dairy products, dark cola (non translucent), beans, nuts, and in some food additives, especially in processed foods.
  3. Phosphorus is important in bone metabolism and in maintaining the proper pH (acidity) of the blood stream.
  4. When Phosphorus is combined with oxygen, it is called phosphate.
  5. Healthy kidneys maintain a proper level of blood Phosphorus by eliminating excessive Phosphorus in the urine.
  6. Patients with ESRD and CKD can retain too much phosphorus, called hyperphosphatemia.
  7. High levels of phosphorus combine (bind) with Calcium. Calcium can come out of the bones and lead to weak bones (renal osteodystrophy). The Phosphorus-Calcium complexes can also be deposited into organs and blood vessels, leading to hardening of these organs.
  8. CKD, ESRD, Dialysis, and Hemodialysis patients are counseled to follow a diet that limits the amount of phosphorous-containing foods they eat.
  9. CKD, ESRD, Dialysis and Hemodialysis patients are often prescribed phosphorus-binding medications. Phosphorus-binding medications are usually taken before meals to help prevent phosphorus from being absorbed from the intestines.
  10. Dialysis patients have their blood level of phosphorus measured every month to keep the phosphorus level in the appropriate range.

If you are a CKD, ESRD, Dialysis, and Hemodialysis, talk to your FKP Physicians.