Acid-base imbalance

Acid-Base Imbalance is a medical condition that occurs when the pH of the body is outside of the normal range (7.35-7.45). This can result from an excess or deficiency of certain acids or bases in the body. Acid-base imbalances can be categorized into two main types: acidosis and alkalosis.

Types of Acid-Base Imbalance

Acidosis

Acidosis is a condition in which there is too much acid in the body fluids. It can be further divided into two types: respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis.

Respiratory Acidosis

Respiratory acidosis occurs when the lungs can't remove enough of the carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by the body. This leads to a decrease in the pH of the blood, making it more acidic.

Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis happens when the body produces too much acid, or when the kidneys are not removing enough acid from the body. This can be caused by conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney disease, and lactic acidosis.

Alkalosis

Alkalosis is a condition in which the body fluids have too much base. Like acidosis, it can be divided into two types: respiratory alkalosis and metabolic alkalosis.

Respiratory Alkalosis

Respiratory alkalosis is caused by a low level of carbon dioxide in the blood due to breathing excessively.

Metabolic Alkalosis

Metabolic alkalosis occurs when the body loses too much acid or gains too much base. This can occur from certain medications, or prolonged vomiting.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acid-base imbalance involves a series of tests, including arterial blood gas analysis, electrolyte panel, and urine pH.

Treatment

Treatment of acid-base imbalance involves treating the underlying cause, and may include medications, oxygen therapy, or intravenous fluids.

See Also

• Acid-Base Homeostasis
• Blood Gas Test
• Electrolyte Imbalance