Metabolic acidosis – types, symptoms, treatment and prevention

Metabolic acidosis can be a symptom of severe disease, especially failure problems. Prolonged condition may cause impairment of the circulatory system and blood supply, as well as deterioration of the functioning of the kidneys. What are the symptoms of metabolic acidosis and how can it be prevented?

Metabolic acidosis occurs when the chemical balance of acids and bases in the blood is disturbed. The body produces too much acids and does not get rid of them, causing the body’s pH to be disturbed. When any symptom is present, the body cannot function properly.

Metabolic acidosis – types

1. ketone – which occurs in people with diabetes who do not get enough insulin. You become dehydrated, the body burns fat instead of carbohydrates, which results in the production of ketones. A large amount of ketone compounds in the blood causes acidification of the body;
2. lactic acid – production of lactic acid in the presence of hypoxia. The disease occurs with strenuous exercise, high blood pressure drops, heart failure, cardiac arrest and infections;
3. kidney tubule – properly functioning kidneys excrete excess acid in the urine. However, kidney disease, disease of the immune system, and genetic problems can damage the kidneys, preventing the body from getting rid of acid;
4. hyperchloraemic – which is characterized by diarrhea. It is caused by the overuse of laxatives;
5. Respiratory – lung diseases cause too much carbon dioxide in the body and too acidic blood.

Metabolic acidosis – symptoms

1. rapid breathing,
2. slow heartbeat
3. Headache,
4. confusion
5. bad mood,
6. tiredness,
7. decreased appetite
8. nausea and vomiting.

Metabolic acidosis – diagnosis

1. anion gap check, the test measures the chemical balance in the blood. The numbers of positively and negatively charged sodium, chloride and bicarbonate particles are compared;
2. arterial blood gases, i.e. measuring blood pH, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels;
3. urine test to verify ketoacidosis, kidney problems, and alcohol, aspirin and antifreeze poisoning;
4. sugar.

Metabolic acidosis – treatment

Treatment begins with determining the cause. First of all, actions are taken to eliminate it. An impaired acidity balance affects bones, muscles and kidneys. In severe cases, it can cause shock, coma and even death.

1. Familiarize yourself with a deacidification diet that will help restore the body’s acid-base balance

Metabolic acidosis – prevention

You can’t always prevent metabolic acidosis, but there are activities that can reduce your risk of developing it, such as:

1. drinking plenty of water and other non-alcoholic fluids,
2. limiting alcohol consumption,
3. in case of diabetes, ongoing contact with the doctor and not stopping treatment,
4. drug dosing as prescribed.

Products such as cheese, eggs, sweets, butter, rice, barley groats, potatoes and coffee can disturb the acid-base balance.

The daily diet should include:

1. beetroot,
2. apples,
3. lettuces,
4. bananas
5. celery.

Stress reduction and quitting smoking can help to maintain acid-base balance. You can also order fenugreek seeds + for a healthy stomach, i.e. a dietary supplement in the form of capsules.