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Respiratory system
Respiratory system
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Respiratory alkalosis

Definition:

Respiratory alkalosis is a condition of excessive alkalinity of the body, most often associated with respiratory (breathing) disorders. The pH (a measure of acidity) is elevated and carbon dioxide levels are reduced.

Common causes include hyperventilation (increased rate of breathing), anxiety, and fever. The symptoms may include light-headedness, dizziness, and numbness of the hands and feet.

The treatment includes removal of the cause. Breathing into a paper bag (or use of a mask that causes re-breathing of carbon dioxide) helps reduce symptoms in some cases.



Alternative Names:

Alkalosis - respiratory



Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath may result in respiratory alkalosis. Fever and anxiety are also common causes of hyperventilation.

Review Date: 1/25/2002
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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