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A.D.A.M. > Respiratory alkalosis

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Respiratory alkalosis

Definition

Respiratory alkalosis is a condition marked by low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood.

See also: Alkalosis

Alternative Names

Alkalosis - respiratory

Causes

Common causes include hyperventilation, anxiety, and fever.

Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath may also result in respiratory alkalosis.

Symptoms

The symptoms may include light-headedness, dizziness, and numbness of the hands and feet.

Exams and Tests

  • Arterial blood gas
  • Chest x-ray or pulmonary function test

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at the condition that causes respiratory alkalosis. Life-threatening respiratory alkalosis is very rare. Breathing into a paper bag -- or use of a mask that causes re-breathing of carbon dioxide -- helps reduce symptoms in some cases.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The prognosis is based on the condition that causes the respiratory alkalosis.

Possible Complications

Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of lung disease such as chronic cough or shortness of breath.

Murray J, Nadel J. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2000: 192-193.

Marx J. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002:1717-1718.

Review Date: 2/27/2006
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.




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