Alkalosis, respiratory

A condition characterized by a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, leading to increased blood pH.

Respiratory Alkalosis
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Light-headedness, confusion, tingling
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Hyperventilation
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Arterial blood gas analysis
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Address underlying cause, breathing into a paper bag
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Respiratory alkalosis is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood, leading to an increase in blood pH. This condition is primarily caused by hyperventilation, which results in excessive expulsion of CO₂ from the body.

Pathophysiology

Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is an imbalance in the body's acid-base homeostasis due to increased alveolar ventilation. The primary mechanism involves the excessive removal of CO₂ through the lungs, which reduces the concentration of carbonic acid in the blood. This reduction shifts the blood pH towards alkalinity.

The body attempts to compensate for respiratory alkalosis through renal mechanisms. The kidneys may excrete more bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) to help normalize the pH. However, this compensatory mechanism takes time to develop, and acute respiratory alkalosis may not be fully compensated.

Causes

The most common cause of respiratory alkalosis is hyperventilation, which can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Fever
• Pain
• Hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels)
• Central nervous system disorders
• Liver disease
• Sepsis
• Pregnancy

Symptoms

Symptoms of respiratory alkalosis can vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Confusion
• Tingling or numbness in the extremities (paresthesia)
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Palpitations

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of respiratory alkalosis is typically made through an arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. This test measures the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and bicarbonate in the blood, as well as the blood pH. In respiratory alkalosis, the ABG will show a decreased partial pressure of CO₂ and an elevated pH.

Treatment

The treatment of respiratory alkalosis focuses on addressing the underlying cause of hyperventilation. Some general approaches include:

• Reassurance and calming techniques for anxiety-induced hyperventilation
• Breathing into a paper bag to increase CO₂ levels temporarily
• Treating any underlying medical conditions contributing to hyperventilation

In cases where respiratory alkalosis is due to a medical condition, such as sepsis or liver disease, specific treatments for those conditions are necessary.

Prognosis

The prognosis for respiratory alkalosis is generally good if the underlying cause is identified and treated effectively. Chronic or severe cases may require more intensive management.

Also see

• Acidosis
• Metabolic alkalosis
• Hyperventilation syndrome
• Arterial blood gas