Respiratory alkalosis
Alternative Names: Alkalosis - respiratory
Respiratory alkalosis is a condition marked by low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood due to breathing excessively.
See also: Alkalosis
Causes of Respiratory alkalosis
Common causes include:
- Anxiety
- Fever
- Hyperventilation
Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath can also cause respiratory alkalosis.
Respiratory alkalosis Symptoms
The symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Numbness of the hands and feet
Tests and Exams
The health care provider will perform a physical exam. Tests that may be done include:
- Arterial blood gas, which measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood
- Chest x-ray
- Pulmonary function test
Treatment of Respiratory alkalosis
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.
Prognosis (Outlook)
What will happen depends on the condition that is causing the respiratory alkalosis.
Potential Complications
Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare.
When to Contact a Health Professional
Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of lung disease, such as chronic cough or shortness of breath.
Seifter JL. Acid-base disorders. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 120.
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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.
Copyright 2011 A.D.A.M., Inc.
