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Acidosis Overview
Acidosis is excessive acid in the body fluids.

Reference from A.D.A.M.

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
Back to TopSymptoms
See the specific types of acidosis.
Back to TopExams 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.
Back to TopTreatment
Treatment depends on the cause. See the specific types of acidosis.
Back to TopOutlook (Prognosis)
Acidosis can be dangerous if untreated. Many causes respond well to treatment.
Back to TopPossible Complications
See the specific types of acidosis.
Back to TopWhen to Contact a Medical Professional
Although there are several types of acidosis, all will cause symptoms that require treatment by your health care provider.
Back to TopPrevention
Preventing or treating the underlying causes may prevent some cases of acidosis.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.