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Respiratory alkalosis
Definition
Respiratory alkalosis is a condition marked by low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood due to breathing excessively.
See also: Alkalosis
Alternative Names
Alkalosis - respiratory
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Common causes include:
- Anxiety
- Fever
- Hyperventilation
Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath can also cause respiratory alkalosis.
Symptoms
The symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Numbness of the hands and feet
Signs and tests
- Arterial blood gas (measures levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood; in respiratory alkalosis, the level of carbon dioxide is too low)
- Chest x-ray
- Pulmonary function test
Treatment
Treatment is aimed at the condition that causes respiratory alkalosis. Breathing into a paper bag -- or using a mask that causes you to re-breathe carbon dioxide -- sometimes helps reduce symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis)
What will happen depends on the condition that is causing the respiratory alkalosis.
Complications
Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of lung disease, such as chronic cough or shortness of breath.
References
Seifter JL. Acid base disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier. 2007: chap 119.
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
