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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Alkalosis

Alkalosis

Provided by A.D.A.M.

Definition

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

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Definition

Alkalosis is a condition of excess base (alkali) in the body fluids. This is the opposite of excess acid (acidosis), and can be caused by many different conditions.

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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

The lungs and kidneys regulate the acid/base status of the body. Decreased carbon dioxide or increased bicarbonate levels create an excessive alkaline state called alkalosis.

Respiratory alkalosis is caused by lower carbon dioxide levels. Hyperventilation (increased rate of breathing) causes the body to lose carbon dioxide. Altitude or a disease that causes reduced oxygen in the blood triggers the individual to breathe faster. This reduces carbon dioxide levels which results in respiratory alkalosis.

Metabolic alkalosis is caused by an excess of bicarbonate in blood. Hypochloremic alkalosis is caused by an extreme lack or loss of chloride (may be caused by prolonged vomiting). The kidneys compensate for the chloride loss by conserving bicarbonate.

Hypokalemic alkalosis is caused by the kidneys' reaction to an extreme lack or loss of potassium which may be caused by some diuretic medications.

Compensated alkalosis is caused when the body has partially compensated for alkalosis, returning the acid/base balance to normal, even though bicarbonate and carbon dioxide levels remain abnormal.


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Definition
Alkalosis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Alkalosis Symptoms & Signs
Alkalosis Prevention
Alkalosis Diagnosis & Tests
Alkalosis Treatment
Alkalosis Prognosis
Alkalosis Complications
Calling Your Health Care Provider
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Topics that might be of interest to you

Diseases & Conditions

Acidosis
Arrhythmias
Hypokalemia
Respiratory Alkalosis

Tests & Exams

Blood Pressure
CHEM-20
Pulse
Urinalysis
Urine pH

Other Topics

Breathing Difficulty
Confusion
Consciousness - Decreased
Electrolytes
Fainting
Hand Tremor
Muscle Cramps
Muscle Twitching
Nausea and Vomiting
Numbness and Tingling
Rapid Deep Breathing (Hyperventilation)
Respiratory
Seizures
Vital Signs

Review Date : 1/19/2002
Reviewed By : Andrew Koren, M.D., Department of Nephrology, NYU-Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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