Metabolic Acidosis: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Acids are usually produced as byproducts in a number of metabolic activities including the breakdown of fats. But the normal balance between acid and base is maintained by bicarbonates. Bicarbonates neutralize acids and thereby prevent their excess accumulation. Therefore, any factor that can contribute to either excess production of acids or impair the normal production of bicarbonates, can cause metabolic acidosis. Here is a brief account of what is metabolic acidosis and the causes and consequences of this condition.

What is Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis refers to the condition where the acid base balance of the body is disrupted due to an increased production of acid or the reduced excretion and decreased production of bicarbonates. The condition can ultimately lead to acidemia or acidity of blood, where arterial pH falls below 7.35. Metabolic acidosis, if untreated, can affect the central nervous system and lead to coma and even death. It is one of the most important causes of acidosis.

Metabolic Acidosis Causes

Metabolic acidosis is caused by an increase in the level of acids due to increased acid production or ingestion of acids or substances that can be converted into acids. It can also be caused by loss of bicarbonates as in the case of diarrhea and renal tubular acidosis. Ingestion of substances like large amounts of antifreeze, aspirin, etc. can also increase the level of acid within our body. Accumulation of lactic acid is another important reason behind metabolic acidosis. It usually takes place due to insufficient availability of oxygen in carbohydrate metabolism, as in the cases of heart failure and shock. Malaria can also be responsible for this condition by destroying the red blood cells and thereby reducing the level of oxygen in the body. This in turn results in the accumulation of lactic acid due to anaerobic breakdown of glucose or carbohydrates.

Metabolic abnormalities can lead to acidosis. Use of fat instead of carbohydrates, for deriving energy, as in the case of diabetes mellitus, can lead to an excessive production of acids. Breakdown of fats produces ketones and raises the level of acids in the body. Sometimes, metabolic acidosis can occur even without the excessive production of acids, when the kidney fails to excrete them through urine, which can be a symptom of renal failure. Conditions like alcoholism and malnutrition are also associated with metabolic acidosis.

Metabolic Acidosis Symptoms

Metabolic acidosis is usually characterized by rapid breathing. The symptoms of this condition are mainly produced by underlying causes and hence, are not specific to the condition. Chest pain, headaches, palpitations, muscle and bone pain, muscle weakness and abdominal pain, are some of the common metabolic acidosis symptoms. As this condition can affect the central nervous system, individuals may experience anxiety and progressive drowsiness. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss are some other symptoms of metabolic acidosis. In extreme conditions, it can cause severe complications like stupor, coma and seizures.

Metabolic Acidosis Treatment

Physicians generally carry out blood tests like arterial blood gas analysis and a complete count of blood cells to diagnose the condition. The treatment of metabolic acidosis depends on the underlying causes. However, if the blood pH falls below 7.1, the condition can require the administration of bicarbonates intravenously to neutralize the acids. In severe cases, dialysis may be required to properly treat metabolic acidosis. Mechanical ventilation is also employed to ease breathing problems.

Monitoring and controlling the factors responsible for causing metabolic acidosis is the best way to prevent the condition from worsening. As for example, controlling the underlying causes like diabetes, can help control the disease in diabetic patients. Metabolic acidosis is often a symptom of some serious diseases like renal and heart failure and diabetes. So the proper monitoring of the symptoms of this condition would be of great help in preventing any complications.