How do you remember alkalosis and acidosis?
Memorize the normal lab values 45 in the pH levels. Looks pretty similar to the lab values of 35-45 in pCO2, right? Now, if a patient’s pH falls below 7.35, they are in a state of acidosis (remember the acidic-lemon?). If the patient’s pH is above 7.45, the patient would be in a state of alkalosis (the elk-loser).
What is acidosis pH?
According to the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC), acidosis is characterized by a pH of 7.35 or lower. Alkalosis is characterized by a pH level of 7.45 or higher. While seemingly slight, these numerical differences can be serious.
What are the 4 acid base imbalances?
There are four simple acid base disorders: (1) Metabolic acidosis, (2) respiratory acidosis, (3) metabolic alkalosis, and (4) respiratory alkalosis. Metabolic acidosis is the most common disorder encountered in clinical practice.
What are the causes of acidosis?
Acidosis is caused by an overproduction of acid that builds up in the blood or an excessive loss of bicarbonate from the blood (metabolic acidosis) or by a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood that results from poor lung function or depressed breathing (respiratory acidosis).
What are 3 causes of metabolic acidosis?
It can be caused by:
- Cancer.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Drinking too much alcohol.
- Exercising vigorously for a very long time.
- Liver failure.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Medicines, such as salicylates, metformin, anti-retrovirals.
- MELAS (a very rare genetic mitochondrial disorder that affects energy production)
What are the dangers of acidosis?
Excessive thirst
How to reverse acidosis?
Hydrate always! One of the keys of achieving a non-metabolic acidic state is to hydrate.
What does alkalosis do to the body?
– nausea. – vomiting. – hand tremors. – muscle twitching. – tingling in the extremities or face. – confusion.
What are the different symptoms of alkalosis?
Confusion (can progress to stupor or coma)