moderate Metabolic Acidosis
What is Moderate Metabolic Acidosis?
Moderate metabolic acidosis is a condition that occurs when the body is producing too much acid or has an impaired ability to remove acidic by-products from its cells. It is typically characterized by increased levels of hydrogen ions in the body’s fluids and a decrease in the pH of the body’s fluids. This condition may be caused by various factors, including kidney diseases, prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, certain medications, or diabetes mellitus.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of moderate metabolic acidosis may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heart rate
- Lethargy
Diagnosis
If a person suspects that they may have metabolic acidosis, a doctor can perform tests to measure the levels of bicarbonate and hydrogen ions in the body’s fluids in order to confirm the diagnosis. For example, an arterial blood gas test may be used to measure the levels of carbon dioxide and hydrogen ions in the blood.
Treatment
The treatment for moderate metabolic acidosis will depend on its underlying cause. The main goal of treatment is to eliminate the cause of the acidosis and restore the body’s balance of acidity. This may involve making dietary and lifestyle changes, taking medications, or undergoing certain medical procedures. Additionally, treatments may also involve the use of intravenous fluids to replace lost electrolytes or medications to help stimulate the kidneys to excrete acids into the urine.