What are the causes and characteristics of phosphate imbalances?
Hypophosphatemia (serum phosphate <1.7 mEq/L) is caused by chronic malnutrition or alcoholism, prolonged use of IV solutions that are low in phosphorus, acid-base imbalances, excess parathyroid hormone, and overuse of aluminum-containing antacids. Hypophosphatemia causes cognitive and sensory problems, muscle weakness and other mobility problems, hypoxia, hyperventilation, possible bleeding, weak pulse, possible infection, anorexia, and dysphagia. It is accompanied by reduced white blood cells and platelets, plus elevated cardiac isoenzymes. Hyperphosphatemia is caused by excessive intake of phosphates and hypoparathyroidism, along with renal insufficiency. Hyperphosphatemia is characterized by tetany, muscle weakness, flaccid paralysis, circumoral paraesthesia, hyperreflexia, electrocardiogram changes, and gastrointestinal upset.
