Milk-alkali syndrome is an acquired condition in which there are high levels of calcium (hypercalcemia) and a shift in the body's acid/base balance towards alkaline (metabolic alkalosis).

Milk-alkali syndrome is caused by excessive consumption of milk (which is high in calcium) and certain antacids, especially calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) over a long period of time.

Calcium deposits in the kidneys and other tissues can occur in milk-alkali syndrome. Consumption of vitamin D, which is often added to milk bought at the supermarket, can worsen this condition.

In the past, milk-alkali syndrome was often a side effect of treating peptic ulcer disease. It is rarely seen today, because newer, better medications are available for treating ulcers.

The condition often has no symptoms (asymptomatic). When symptoms do occur, they are often related to complications, such as kidney problems.

Symptoms include:

• Back and loin pain (related to kidney stones)
• Excessive urination
• Other problems that can result from kidney failure

Calcium deposits within the tissue of the kidney (nephrocalcinosis) may be seen on:

• X-rays
• Computed tomography (CT scans)
• Ultrasound

Other tests used to make a diagnosis:

• Blood chemistries
• Blood gas tests
• Serum calcium tests