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Acidosis
Definition
Acidosis is excessive acid in the body fluids.
Causes
The kidneys and lungs maintain the body's acid/base (pH) balance. Acidosis occurs when acid builds up or bicarbonate (a base) is lost. The major categories of acidosis are respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis.
Respiratory acidosis develops when there is too much carbon dioxide (an acid) in the body, primarily caused by decreased breathing. Other names for this include hypercapnic acidosis and carbon dioxide acidosis.
There are several types of metabolic acidosis:
- Diabetic acidosis (also called diabetic ketoacidosis and DKA) develops when ketone bodies build up during uncontrolled diabetes.
- Hyperchloremic acidosis results from excessive loss of sodium bicarbonate from the body, as in severe diarrhea.
- Lactic acidosis is a buildup of lactic acid. This can be caused by:
- Alcohol
- Cancer
- Liver failure
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Medications such as salicylates
- Prolonged exercise
- Prolonged lack of oxygen from shock, heart failure, or severe anemia
- Seizures
Other causes of metabolic acidosis include:
- Kidney disease (distal renal tubular acidosis and proximal renal tubular acidosis)
- Severe dehydration
Symptoms
See the specific types of acidosis.
Exams and Tests
An arterial blood gas analysis or a blood chemistry, such as a Chem-20, will confirm acidosis in most cases. Other tests may be needed to determine the cause of the acidosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. See the specific types of acidosis.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Acidosis can be dangerous if untreated. Many cases respond well to treatment.
Possible Complications
See the specific types of acidosis.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Although there are several types of acidosis, all will cause symptoms that require treatment by your health care provider.
Prevention
Preventing or treating the underlying causes may prevent some cases of acidosis.
Reviewed By: Charles Silberberg, D.O., Private Practice specializing in Nephrology, Affiliated with NY Medical College, Division of Nephrology, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
