Common Side Effects of Chelation Therapy and How to Minimize Them

Side Effects of Chelation Therapy

Chelation therapy is a medical treatment that expedites the removal of toxic metals from the body. People have enriched its use for nonsurgical correction of cardiovascular disorders and for the treatment of autism. Each medical intervention, however, is not free of potential side effects and adverse effects that ought to be known to the patients. While chelation therapy is capable of rendering important health gains to certain people, it is crucial to appreciate the adverse effects, both common and more serious, in order to make the decision to go through the treatment more informed.

The treatment of chelation therapy and its associated side effects which are not uncommon include a broad overview of the risks. The strategies on how to mitigate these side effects will also be discussed to make the procedure safer and more bearable.

Common Side Effects of Chelation Therapy

However, like in most therapies, most patients experience these side effects during or after the treatment, although chelation therapy is safe when correctly performed. These side effects are most of the time mild and temporary but can be troublesome nonetheless. 

Burning Sensation at the Injection or Infusion Site

One of the frequent side effects that patients usually complain about is burning or stinging pain at the site of injection or infusion. This happens due to the introduction of blood clotting, which may lead to straight into the healthy bloodstream chelating agent infusing into the patient and can be mildly painful. To reduce this effect, a cold pack can be placed around the injection site by the patient or a healthcare provider’s order can be given to slow down the infusion rate.

Fever and Chills

It is not uncommon for some patients to complain of fever and chills during or following chelation therapy. The response is more often than not associated with the body’s natural process of detoxifying from heavy metals or other toxins. A patient who is properly hydrated and rested after the treatment will find some relief from these side effects. Should the fever continue or be very high, it is advisable to reach out to a medical professional for assistance.

Headache

Chelation therapy as a medical procedure has its benefits and side effects, one of them being headache which in this case may present due to an imbalance of electrolytic levels or while detoxifying. To minimize the chances of developing headaches, fluid intake should be high for treatment. The patient’s intake of a mineral-rich diet especially magnesium and potassium should be observed before and after the treatment.

Nausea and Vomiting

During chelation therapy, experienced nausea and vomiting amongst patients are more pronounced, especially in those who have a sensitivity towards chelating agents. Eating a small meal prior to therapy and particularly abstaining from heavy or oily food helps in lessening the feeling of nausea. In cases of excessive vomiting, it is advisable to inform your physician in order to modify the treatment.

Diarrhea

Some patients have reported having experienced diarrhea after undergoing chelation therapy. This is a side effect that is often short-lived but can be quite uncomfortable. A person suffering from diarrhea can be rehydrated and relieved of discomfort by drinking fluids or eating foods with electrolytes.

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Diabetes patients or those prone to low blood sugar levels need to be extra careful with some Chelating agents as some can affect the levels of sugar in the body. Thus, it is necessary to monitor glucose levels before, during, and after the therapy to prevent hypoglycemic conditions. Diabetics are recommended to consult their physicians regarding any necessary modifications to the therapeutic regime.

Serious Risks and Side Effects

Although infrequently, chelation therapy can also present some serious risks. Such risks are overstated if the procedure itself is not carried out properly or there are pre-existing ailments in the patient.

Kidney Damage

Whether orally ingested or otherwise introduced into the body, chelating agents need to be avoided in excessive amounts as they are nephrotoxic agents. As a result, there is the danger of kidney injury which can cause kidney failure or dysfunction. Individuals with current kidney diseases are at a greater risk and hence should not be treated with chelation therapy unless absolutely warranted. Care providers should perform regular blood tests to evaluate kidney status during the course of treatment.

Hypocalcemia

The use of chelators like EDTA decreases the calcium content in the system because those agents trap the calcium. This is known as hypocalcemia and poses a health risk. Low levels of calcium can cause muscle cramps, seizures, and in most severe cases, irregular heart rhythms. This risk is reduced by monitoring calcium levels before and after treatment and providing calcium supplements as needed to ensure levels are within the normal range.

Bone Marrow Depression

Bone marrow suppression, a serious condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce adequate amounts of blood, may occasionally be induced by chelation therapy. Bone marrow suppression is a serious health concern associated with anemia, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, among other conditions. As a result, patients undergoing chelation therapy must have their complete blood count monitored regularly. 

Allergic Reactions

Patients may experience allergies to chelating agents with the allergic reactions being at extreme scopes ranging from mild itching to anaphylactic shock. Some patients for instance who may be allergic to a particular chelating agent and where its use is not recommended will have to seek other agents, and it is to be noted that healthcare professionals will have suitable management for the related anaphylactic shock if it occurs.

Electrolyte Imbalances

There is a risk of excessive losses of minerals from the body structure during chelation therapy. Electrolyte disturbances resulting from this may manifest in conditions such as muscle weakness, and irregularities in the heartbeat amongst other complaints. In order to avoid imbalances of electrolytes, physicians will keep check on minerals’ quantities and may suggest the addition of electrolyte intakes.

Blood Pressure Changes

Patients may encounter low blood pressure (hypotension) while on chelation therapy. This results in weakness, giddiness, and even fainting. One way to avoid significant drops in blood pressure during treatment is to slow down the speed of the infusion and ensure adequate hydration of the patient.

Side Effects of Chelation Therapy

Contraindications

Some people must completely refrain from undergoing chelation therapy due to the risks exceeding the advantages. Such contraindications include:

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: In pregnant and lactating mothers, chelation therapy is contraindicated as it poses a risk to the fetus or may be secreted in breast milk.
  • Impaired Renal Function: Pre-existing kidney problems are also a contraindication to chelation therapy, as this may promote further deterioration of renal function.
  • Congestive Heart Failure: Due to the risk that some chelating agents may precipitate heart failure, patients with this condition are usually not treated with these drugs.
  • History of tuberculosis: Certain types of chelation therapy may worsen tuberculosis.

Special Considerations

Some populations demand additional attention during exposure to chelation therapy.

Age

The elderly as well as the young are more likely to experience adverse reactions to chelation therapy. The safety of these groups may come in the form of lower doses and increased surveillance.

Multiple Health Conditions

Since these patients have predefined conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or even autoimmune conditions, a detailed evaluation may be requisite before treatment initiation. The consideration is to avoid complications during the treatment with existing health conditions and medications.

Conclusion

Even though health benefits can be derived from the utilization of chelation therapy, especially in the alleviation of heavy metal toxicity, the negative side effects and associated risks must be considered. It is suggested that patients reduce these side effects as much as possible by being treated by a qualified healthcare practitioner or physician. Treatment can be performed more easily and effectively. The importance of constant follow-up, individualized care, and concern for health in general is significant in ensuring the effectiveness of the chelation therapy.

Understanding the common and serious side effects of chelation therapy, as well as taking steps to mitigate them, can help patients make informed decisions about their health.

If you’re seeking to understand the side effects of chelation therapy, we can help. Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your concerns and explore your options. 

Visit our website for more information or call (212) 794-8800 to book an appointment and get started on your journey to wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the long-term side effects of chelation?
Ans. With prolonged practice of chelation therapy, a patient is at risk of suffering from kidney problems, imbalances in electrolytes, and deficiency in the normal ranges of mineral components such as calcium and magnesium. In some circumstances, however, this practice may suppress the activity of the bone marrow or predispose the patient to infections. Therefore, close follow-up is encouraged in order to prevent long-term complications.

Q2. How safe is chelation therapy?
Ans. Overall chelation therapy is quite safe if done by professionals in the therapy field because it has been signed off to treat conditions such as poisoning by metals. As a result, there is a possibility of exposure to side effects such as kidney destruction and also hypocalcemia as well as an allergic reaction in the patient. Such a depends on overdose, state of health the patient is in, and control of the process.

Q3. What are the side effects of chelation therapy for kidneys?
Ans. Chelation therapy is considered to be nephrotoxic which means it is damaging to the kidneys. This is more pronounced in the case of high doses, or prolonged administration due to stress over the kidneys. Patients with underlying renal disease are more vulnerable and need to be monitored for renal function deterioration.

Q4. Is chelation good for your body?
Ans. As much as chelation can be useful in the management of heavy metal toxins and some cardiovascular diseases, it is not a panacea. It is effective in removing poisons but can in turn cause a deficiency of some useful elements thereby making it important to employ strict medical supervision. It’s successful only when used for the right reason with the right dosage for certain medical indications.

Q5. Can chelation cause liver damage?
Ans. The liver is affected by chelation therapy mostly because of the kidney function. Liver some chelating agents may cause some degree of stress to the liver. In particular cases when it is used inappropriately for a long time liver toxicity may occur. Care needs to be taken for such patients undergoing such treatments to prevent further damage.

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