Hank Feeser 1/3/2023 Labs
Blood chemistry, that is the readings obtained from lab results, is extremely important for those with CKF and/or on Dialysis. Lab results provide markers for your Nephrologist to follow in prescribing Cycler settings, as well as keeping your overall health as optimum as possible.
There are many specifics provided in lab reports, one of which is your Phosphorus level. Over time my phosphorus levels have been increasing beyond normative levels of 5.5. See lead graphic. I attempted to control and/or reduce the level via diet to no avail. Recently my Nephrologist, Dr. Turner prescribed a medication called a Phosphorus Binder.
Phosphorus binders (also called phosphate binders) prevent the body from absorbing the phosphorus from the food you eat.
Phosphorus binders help to pass excess phosphorus out of the body in the stool, reducing the amount of phosphorus that gets into the blood. Usually, phosphate binders are taken within 5 to 10 minutes before or immediately after meals and snacks.
My PD doctor prescribed a non-calcium treatment named Velphoro, which is sucroferric oxyhydroxide in a chewable tablet form, at a 500 mg level. The medication is made in Switzerland and distributed by Fresenius Medical Care North America, the company in charge of my PD care and feeding. It is Rx only. I will start taking it today. Below I’ve included a screenshot of the phosphorus section of my most recent lab report and some additional info on phosphorus.
If you are in Stage 3 or higher of CKF, I would become very familiar with your blood chemistry and what to attempt to mediate to the best of your ability.
What is phosphorus?
Phosphorus is a mineral found in your bones. Along with calcium, phosphorus is needed to build strong healthy bones, as well as keep other parts of your body healthy.
Why is phosphorus important to you?
Normal working kidneys can remove extra phosphorus in your blood. When you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), your kidneys cannot remove phosphorus very well. High phosphorus levels can cause damage to your body. Extra phosphorus causes body changes that pull calcium out of your bones, making them weak. High phosphorus and calcium levels also lead to dangerous calcium deposits in blood vessels, lungs, eyes, and the heart. Over time this can lead to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or death. Phosphorus and calcium control are very important for your overall health.
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