Inflammation of a Vein
If the infusion into a vein is performed too rapidly, it may lead to inflammation. To prevent this, reduce the dosage, dilute the EDTA infusion mix, and administer the infusion very slowly.
Insulin Shock and Hypoglycemia
During EDTA infusion, there is a risk of blood glucose dropping, potentially leading to insulin shock. This is more likely to happen to diabetic patients. Patients receiving EDTA infusions are advised to have a snack before or during the treatment to maintain blood sugar levels. It's important to avoid dairy products high in calcium and opt for complex carbohydrates while avoiding sugary foods. Patients may eat fruit during the infusion if needed.
If you are diabetic and using zinc-bound insulin, there is a risk of a rapid release of insulin leading to hypoglycemia and shock. If this occurs, ensure you receive a quick introduction of sugar to stabilize your condition. You may also need to change the form of insulin used before further EDTA infusions. Interestingly, many people require less insulin while undergoing chelation therapy.
Congestive Heart Failure
If the heart is already struggling with fluid management, and there are signs of congestive heart failure (extreme shortness of breath, swollen ankles), or if digitalis-like medication is being taken, exercise extreme caution during chelation infusions. EDTA can interfere with digitalis's effectiveness. It's advisable to avoid sodium EDTA for such individuals, as it could increase fluid retention tendencies. Instead, use a 5 percent dextrose and water solution.
Summary
Chelation therapy, when administered by an experienced therapist at the proper doses, is very safe. Extensive studies monitored by both proponents and opponents of chelation therapy have found that EDTA administered in the proper dosage is no more toxic than a placebo. The American College for the Advancement in Medicine estimates that over 500,000 patients have safely undergone chelation therapy nationwide using the ACAM protocol, with no reported fatalities. It's important for the therapist to closely monitor your condition for toxicity and side reactions. Strict adherence to the dosage and rate of administration is crucial. Additionally, monitoring calcium and magnesium levels in the blood, as they are removed during treatment, is important. Some suggest having emergency cardiac equipment available as a precaution.
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