Causes

The kidneys and lungs maintain the balance (proper pH level) of chemicals called acids and bases in the body. Acidosis occurs when acid builds up or when bicarbonate (a base) is lost. Acidosis is classified as either respiratory acidosis or metabolic acidosis.

Respiratory acidosis develops when there is too much carbon dioxide (an acid) in the body. This type of acidosis is usually caused when the body is unable to remove enough carbon dioxide through breathing. Other names for respiratory acidosis are hypercapnic acidosis and carbon dioxide acidosis. Causes of respiratory acidosis include:

• Chest deformities, such as kyphosis
• Chest injuries
• Chest muscle weakness
• Chronic lung disease
• Overuse of sedative drugs

Metabolic acidosis develops when too much acid is produced or the kidneys cannot remove enough acid from the body. There are several types of metabolic acidosis:

• Diabetic acidosis (also called diabetic ketoacidosis and DKA) develops when substances called ketone bodies (which are acidic) build up during uncontrolled diabetes.
• Hyperchloremic acidosis is caused by the loss of too much sodium bicarbonate from the body, which can happen with severe diarrhea.
• Lactic acidosis is a buildup of lactic acid. This can be caused by:
  • Alcohol
  • Cancer
  • Exercising vigorously for a very long time
  • Liver failure
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Medications such as salicylates
  • MELAS (a rare genetic disorder that affects energy production)
    
  • Prolonged lack of oxygen from shock, heart failure, or severe anemia
  • Seizures

Other causes of metabolic acidosis include:

• Kidney disease (distal renal tubular acidosis and proximal renal tubular acidosis)
• Poisoning by aspirin, ethylene glycol (found in antifreeze), or methanol
• Severe dehydration

Symptoms

See:

• Metabolic acidosis
  
• Respiratory acidosis

Exams and Tests

An arterial blood gas analysis or serum electrolytes test, such as a basic metabolic panel, will confirm that acidosis is present and indicate whether it is metabolic acidosis or respiratory acidosis. Other tests may be needed to determine the cause of the acidosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Acidosis can be dangerous if untreated. Many cases respond well to treatment.

Possible Complications

Complications depend on the specific type of acidosis.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Although there are several types of acidosis, all will cause symptoms that require treatment by your health care provider.

Prevention

Prevention depends on the cause of the acidosis. Normally, people with healthy kidneys and lungs do not experience significant acidosis.

References

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

Updated: 4/16/2012

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., Inc.