Acid and Base Balance

Metabolic Acidosis may occur due to:

A build up of acidic substances in the body or a loss of bicarbonate which is a crucial aspect of the pH buffer system.

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When:

Can occur when the pH lowers creating a more acidic environment or when the kidney's can not expel appropriate amounts of acid to maintain a balance.

How:

• Diarrhea- Loss of sodium bicarbonate through elimination

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis- When sugar levels are not maintained the body begins to utilize fat and muscle which creates ketones which are fatty acids- increasing the acidity within the body. 

• Renal Failure- Can not excrete enough acidic substance causing a buildup within the body.

Symptoms:

Headache, Lethargy, Nausea, Deep rapid breathing, Severe symptoms: Abdominal discomfort, abnormal heart beat (dysrythmias) and coma.

Diagnosis:

Testing the chemical levels of sodium, bicarbonate and chloride within blood.

Testing the arterial blood gases which determine the pH of the blood which is effected by levels of oxygen and hydrogen.

Testing the urine for presence of ketones which in turn increase the acid levels within the body.

pH less than 7.35 demonstrates acidosis.  

Treatment:

Replace the imbalance through electrolyte and fluid replacement, Oxygen treatment and if necessary kidney treatment known as Dialysis. 

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