Acid-Base disorders occur when the pH levels in your blood are too high or too low. Metabolic acidosis is an excess of acid in the blood due to a poor kidney function, causing the pH to fall. Similarly, metabolic alkalosis is an excess of base in the blood that causes the pH to rise.
Acid Base Disorders
Overview and Symptoms
Overview and Symptoms
Symptoms of metabolic acidosis include:
- rapid and shallow breathing
- confusion
- fatigue
- headache
- lack of appetite
- jaundice
- increased heart rate
- breath that smells fruity
Symptoms of alkalosis may include:
- nausea
- numbness
- prolonged muscle spasms or twitching
- hand tremors
- dizziness
- difficulty breathing
- confusion
- coma
Metabolic acidosis or alkalosis can be diagnosed with certain blood and urine tests.
Treatment
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the underlying causes, but often includes:
- IV fluids
- Medications
- Dietary supplements, including fluids with electrolytes