What Is Acidosis?

Acidosis is a condition characterized by too much acid in bodily fluids, according to Medline Plus. There are two different forms of acidosis, each having its own causes, symptoms and treatments.

Types

• Acidosis may either be metabolic or respiratory. Metabolic acidosis results from the loss of bicarbonate from the blood, while respiratory acidosis happens because of a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood, according to Merck Manuals.

Causes

• Several conditions affecting the lungs may lead to acidosis.

  Metabolic acidosis can be triggered, according to Medline Plus, by diabetes, severe diarrhea and dehydration, buildup of lactic acid, kidney disease, or poisoning with aspirin, methanol or a component of antifreeze called ethylene glycol. The causes of respiratory acidosis include asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, scoliosis, diseases affecting the functioning of the lungs, drugs and medications that suppress breathing, and severe obesity, according to Medline Plus.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of metabolic acidosis include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and breathing more rapidly and more deeply than usual. Respiratory acidosis can cause headache, confusion, and shallow and slow breathing, according to Merck Manuals.

Diagnosis

• Blood tests can help with acidosis diagnosis by detecting high levels of acid in the blood, according to Merck Manuals.

Treatment

• The treatment for acidosis focuses on the underlying cause of the condition. Treatments for respiratory acidosis may include bronchodilator drugs to treat restricted airways, ventilation, oxygen and help with smoking cessation. Metabolic acidosis is sometimes treated with intravenous bicarbonate, according to Medline Plus.