The body’s acid-base balance is regulated by the carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer system, the lungs, and the kidneys. These systems remove excess acid or base from the blood and maintain pH balance. Metabolic acidosis is a serious disruption in the body’s acid-base balance and requires rapid intervention. Understanding this condition and recognizing its symptoms is critical for timely treatment.
What is metabolic acidosis?
Metabolic acidosis is a serious health condition characterized by a decrease in the pH level of the blood due to excessive acid production or base loss in the body. Normally, our bodies maintain a pH level of the blood between 7.35 and 7.45. This balance is vital for the proper functioning of cells and enzymes. However, in metabolic acidosis, this balance is disrupted and the blood pH drops below 7.35. This can lead to various health problems and may require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of metabolic acidosis include:
- Rapid and deep breathing
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach ache
- Muscle cramps
- Confusion of consciousness
- Coma
What causes metabolic acidosis?
There is a delicate balance between acid and bicarbonate ions to maintain your body’s pH balance. When this imbalance is disrupted, metabolic acidosis occurs. Causes of metabolic acidosis include:
- Metabolic acidosis can occur when your body produces more acid than normal or when your kidneys cannot get rid of this acid.
- In case of kidney failure, this function is impaired and acid accumulates in the body, causing the blood pH to drop.
- In people with type 1 diabetes, when the body can’t produce enough insulin, it uses fat for energy, and in the process, ketones are produced. Ketones are acidic and when they build up in the blood, they lead to ketoacidosis.
- Excessive loss of bicarbonate ions from your body can also cause metabolic acidosis.
- Congenital metabolic disorders
- Prolonged or severe diarrhea can cause bicarbonate loss. Bicarbonate loss can lead to acid accumulation and metabolic acidosis.
- Exposure to certain toxins
How is metabolic acidosis diagnosed?
Metabolic acidosis is diagnosed by blood tests and urine tests. Treatment for metabolic acidosis varies depending on the cause of the acidosis. Treatment usually includes treating the underlying problem and replacing fluids and electrolytes. The methods that can be used to treat metabolic acidosis are:
- Drink at least 2 litres of water every day.
- Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
- If you have chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease, keep them under control.
Is metabolic acidosis dangerous?
Metabolic acidosis is a dangerous condition. It can cause many health problems by disrupting the body’s pH balance. Metabolic acidosis can lead to organ failure, affect brain function, cause muscle loss, and affect growth and development.