Does high altitude cause acidosis or alkalosis?

As the oxygen tension of inspired air falls with increasing altitude in normal subjects, hyperventilation ensues. This acute respiratory alkalosis, induces increased renal excretion of bicarbonate, returning the pH back to normal, giving rise to compensated respiratory alkalosis or chronic hypocapnia.

Can you have respiratory acidosis and metabolic alkalosis at the same time?

It is possible for a person to have more than one acid-base disorder at the same time. Examples include ingestion of aspirin (which can produce both a respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis) and those with lung disease who are taking diuretics (respiratory acidosis plus metabolic alkalosis).

What is the difference between respiratory acidosis and respiratory alkalosis?

Normally, the respiratory system keeps these two gases in balance. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when you breathe too fast or too deep and carbon dioxide levels drop too low. This causes the pH of the blood to rise and become too alkaline. When the blood becomes too acidic, respiratory acidosis occurs.

What is respiratory alkalosis and metabolic alkalosis?

Alkalosis is excessive blood alkalinity caused by an overabundance of bicarbonate in the blood or a loss of acid from the blood (metabolic alkalosis), or by a low level of carbon dioxide in the blood that results from rapid or deep breathing (respiratory alkalosis).

What is the pH level of metabolic alkalosis?

pH >7.45 : Alkalosis is an abnormal process that decreases the hydrogen ion concentration and results in alkalaemia. Primary respiratory acidosis (hypoventilation) if pH <7.35 and HCO3 – normal. PaCO2 >45 mmHg (> 6.0 kPa): Respiratory compensation for metabolic alkalosis if pH >7.45 and HCO3 – (increased).

How is PaCO2 related to metabolic acidosis?

PaCO2 <35 mmHg (4.7 kPa): Primary respiratory alkalosis (hyperventilation) if pH >7.45 and HCO3 – normal. Respiratory compensation for metabolic acidosis if pH <7.35 and HCO3 – (decreased).

What is the normal CO2 level for metabolic acidosis?

Normal range: PaCO2 35–45 mmHg (4.7–6.0 kPa) PaCO2 >45 mmHg (> 6.0 kPa): Respiratory compensation for metabolic alkalosis if pH >7.45 and HCO3– (increased). PaCO2 <35 mmHg (4.7 kPa): Primary respiratory alkalosis (hyperventilation) if pH >7.45 and HCO3– normal. Respiratory compensation for metabolic acidosis if pH <7.35 and HCO3– (decreased).

How to calculate metabolic compensation in respiratory acidosis and alkalosis?

Simple table to calculate metabolic compensation in respiratory acidosis and alkalosis (aka the 1-2- 3 -4-5 rule) Emergency physician MA (Oxon) MBChB (Edin) FACEM FFSEM with a passion for rugby; medical history; medical education; and asynchronous learning #FOAMed evangelist.