Phosphorus

Healthy bones and teeth are formed by phosphorus. Phosphorus is vital to body metabolism. Phosphorus is found in dairy foods, meat and fish. Phosphorus deficiency can result in rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Imbalance in phosphorus and calcium can lead to osteoporosis.

Hypophosphatemia

Hypophosphatemia is a condition wherein the blood phosphorus levels fall below 0.8 mmol/L. The normal blood phosphorus range is about 0.8 to 1.4 mmol/L in adults and slightly higher in children. Phosphorus plays an important role in energy formation and storage, nerve conduction, kidney function and formation of teeth and bones. Good dietary sources of phosphorus include meats, whole grain breads and cereals.

Typical symptoms of hypophosphatemia include bone pain, muscle weakness, confusion, seizures and anemia. Muscle cramps and Rhabdomyolysis are other symptoms. Certain medications like birth control pills, anabolic steroids and diuretics can cause hypophosphatemia. Hyperparathyroidism, Vitamin D deficiency and alcoholism can lead to this condition. When the levels of phosphorus fall too low, it can lead to easy bleeding and increased instances of infection. Kidney function test and Vitamin K blood test are conducted. Weak bones might be noticed on X-rays. Anemia and heart damage (Cardiomyopathy) is sometimes noticed.

Hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism is a medical condition that occurs due to insufficient levels of parathyroid hormone. Hyperparathyroidism can lead to abnormal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. The blood levels of calcium dip and the levels of phosphorus rise. Hypoparathyroidism can occur due to injury to the parathyroid glands. Underdevelopment of parathyroid glands at birth, radiation therapy or other medical conditions can lead to Hypoparathyroidism. The congenital absence of the parathyroid glands leads to a disease known as DiGeorge syndrome.

A patient suffering from Hypoparathyroidism may notice tingling in the arms and feet and muscle spasms. The skin and hair becomes dry and the nails become brittle. Hypoparathyroidism can bring on convulsions or cataract. There may be dental complications and painful menstruation. Children suffering from Hypoparathyroidism suffer from vomiting and headaches. There may be improper development of the teeth. The patient is likely to suffer from fungal infections. Persons suffering from Hypoparathyroidism may suffer from cardiac arrhythmia.

Blood tests are conducted to measure the levels of parathyroid hormone. X-rays and CT scans will reveal any bone abnormalities due to insufficient calcium. Calcium injections or Vitamin D tablets can provide relief to a person suffering from Hypoparathyroidism. A diet rich in calcium and low in magnesium is suggested.