Acidosis

Acidosis is a condition that occurs when the body's fluids and tissues become overly acidic. It can cause a variety of issues, including fatigue, coma, and even death, if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms and causes of acidosis can help you get the medical care you need.

Types of Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis: occurs when the body produces too much acid, or when the kidneys are unable to remove enough acid from the body. This is the most common type.
Respiratory acidosis: occurs when your lungs cannot remove enough carbon dioxide from the body, resulting in an acid buildup. This can occur with certain diseases or due to prolonged vomiting.
Lactic acidosis: occurs when there is an excessive buildup of lactic acid in the body, usually due to a medical condition or medication.

Causes of Acidosis

Acidosis can be caused by a variety of things, including:

Diabetes: high levels of sugar can cause a buildup of acids in the body.
Kidney disease: when the kidneys are unable to effectively filter the blood, acids can accumulate.
Dehydration: not taking in enough fluids can cause the body to become too acidic.
Liver disease: the liver is responsible for removing many acids from the body, and when it is unable to do so, acids can build up.
Alcoholism: excessive drinking can lead to an acid buildup in the bloodstream, which can cause acidosis.
Drugs: some medications can cause acidosis as a side effect.

Symptoms of Acidosis

Acidosis can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Rapid breathing
Confusion
Fatigue
Abdominal pain
Loss of appetite

Diagnosis and Treatment of Acidosis

Acidosis is typically diagnosed by a doctor via a physical exam and blood and urine tests. If acidosis is left untreated, it can lead to coma and even death. To treat acidosis, the underlying cause must be identified and corrected. Treatment may include medications, fluids, and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and eating a healthy diet.