Respiratory Alkalosis (Hyperventilation-Induced Alkalosis)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Respiratory Alkalosis
Category : Health Centers > Respiratory System (Lungs and Breathing)

Respiratory Alkalosis

Alternate Names : Hyperventilation-Induced Alkalosis

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Alkalosis describes a condition in which the amount of acid in the body is reduced. It may be due to breathing too fast, which is called respiratory alkalosis.

What is going on in the body?

The kidneys and lungs work to keep the level of acid in the body at a constant level. The kidneys can get rid of acid in the urine and the lungs can get rid of acid in the form of carbon dioxide gas. Many different conditions can cause the lungs to breathe out more carbon dioxide than usual.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

There are many things that can cause too much acid in the body. Examples include dehydration, infection, not getting enough oxygen, certain toxins, and kidney problems. Respiratory alkalosis in these cases is a normal reaction of the body.

Abnormal cases, in which the level of acid in the body is normal, may be caused by:

anxiety

brain damage, such as head injury or a stroke

certain medications, such as aspirin

pregnancy, which usually causes only mild cases

liver failure, such as cirrhosis

inflammation or tumors in the central nervous system

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		Respiratory Alkalosis: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Adam Brochert, MD
Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 09/04/01

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