Acidosis and alkalosis are medical conditions that describe an imbalance in the body’s acid-base balance, which refers to the balance between acids and bases (also called alkalis) in the body’s fluids.
Acidosis
Acidosis occurs when there is an excess of acid in the body, or a decrease in the concentration of bicarbonate, which is a base that helps maintain the normal pH range. This can lead to a decrease in blood pH, which can be harmful to the body.
There are two main types of acidosis: respiratory acidosis and metabolic acidosis. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an excess of carbon dioxide in the body, while metabolic acidosis occurs when there is a buildup of acid or loss of bicarbonate in the body. Other less common types of acidosis include hyperchloraemic acidosis, which occurs when there is an excessive loss of bicarbonate due to a chloride-rich fluid, and renal tubular acidosis, which occurs when the kidneys are unable to excrete acid effectively.
The symptoms of acidosis can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition, but common symptoms can include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Headache and confusion
- Rapid or shallow breathing
- Loss of appetite or nausea
- Increased heart rate
- Flushed or pale skin
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Coma (in severe cases)
Alkalosis
Alkalosis occurs when there is an excess of base in the body, or a decrease in the concentration of acid. This can lead to an increase in blood pH, which can also be harmful to the body.
There are two main types of alkalosis: respiratory alkalosis and metabolic alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the body, while metabolic alkalosis occurs when there is an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of acid in the body. Other less common types of alkalosis include hypochloraemic alkalosis, which occurs when there is a loss of chloride ions from the body, and respiratory acidosis, which occurs when there is an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the body due to a lung disease or breathing problems.
The symptoms of alkalosis can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition, but common symptoms can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle twitching or spasms
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers or toes
- Confusion or disorientation
- Seizures
- Respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath or rapid breathing
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
Acid-base balance
The body’s acid-base balance refers to the delicate balance of hydrogen ions (H+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3–) in the blood, which is critical for the body to function properly. The normal pH range for arterial blood is between 7.35 and 7.45, which is slightly alkaline.
When the pH of the blood deviates from this range, it can cause acidosis (a condition in which there is too much acid in the blood) or alkalosis (a condition in which there is too much base in the blood). Acidosis and alkalosis can have serious consequences for the body, as they can interfere with the normal functioning of cells, tissues, and organs.
To maintain the acid-base balance, the body relies on various mechanisms, including the kidneys, lungs and chemical buffers in the blood. The lungs help to regulate the acid-base balance by controlling the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, while the kidneys help to regulate the levels of bicarbonate ions in the blood.
Chemical buffers in the blood, such as bicarbonate and phosphate, can help to quickly neutralise any excess acid or base that may be present in the blood. In addition, the body can produce new bicarbonate ions through the metabolism of carbon dioxide in the presence of water.
When the body’s acid-base balance is disrupted, it can cause a range of symptoms, including weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, confusion, and in severe cases, coma and death. Treatment of acid-base imbalances depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, fluid replacement, oxygen therapy or other supportive measures.