Respiratory alkalosis

Definition

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

Alternative Names

Alkalosis - respiratory

Causes

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
Lightheadedness
Numbness of the hands and feet

Exams and Tests

Your doctor or nurse will perform a physical exam. Tests that may be done include:

Arterial blood gas, which measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood
Basic metabolic panel
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.

Outlook (Prognosis)

What will happen depends on the condition that is causing 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.

References

Seifter JL. Acid-base disorders. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 120.

Effros RM, Swenson ER. Acid-base balance. In: Mason RJ, Broaddus CV, Martin TR, et al. Murray & Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 7.

Review Date: 9/1/2012
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. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.

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