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Article by: Liew Yu En
Our bodies require oxygen to operate properly, and the respiratory system usually maintains a balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. An imbalance in these levels leading to respiratory alkalosis, on the other hand, occurs when excessive breathing results in low carbon dioxide levels. This raises blood pH, causing it to become overly alkaline (above 7.45). Respiratory alkalosis can be caused by a variety of reasons, including a heart attack, anxiety, pregnancy, or pulmonary embolism.
Overbreathing, for example, can be used to diagnose respiratory alkalosis:
1. Dry lips, heart palpitations, and numbness or muscular spasms in the hands and feet are all symptoms of low blood carbon dioxide levels.
2. An arterial blood gas test, which analyses blood pH, is used by doctors to identify respiratory alkalosis.
3. Serum electrolyte measurement
4. CT scan and chest X-rays can help identify
To minimize hyperventilation, opioid pain relievers or anti-anxiety drugs may be used, as well as oxygen and pharmaceuticals or electric shocks to address heart rhythm problems.
While respiratory alkalosis is not a life-threatening condition, the underlying cause may be. The situation is usually resolved by addressing the underlying problem. To restore pH equilibrium, our body may attempt self-correction by increasing alkaline excretion and decreasing acid excretion through the kidneys.
Acute respiratory alkalosis and chronic respiratory alkalosis are the two kinds of respiratory alkalosis. Acute respiratory alkalosis is characterised by a higher pH level and appears quickly. The kidney's response to this illness, however, is relatively slow. Lightheadedness, muscular cramps, weariness, and other symptoms are possible.
Chronic pulmonary alkalosis, on the other hand, is a more severe illness in which the kidneys have a longer time to reduce the bicarbonate level. Interestingly, chronic respiratory alkalosis is usually asymptomatic, with no discernible symptoms.
Respiratory alkalosis prevention relies on addressing the underlying cause, which is typically related to psychological disorders such as stress, panic, or concern.
Thus, it is critical to live in a healthy environment and to foster a healthy lifestyle. Exercise, for example, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, etc. Working with a therapist, one of the useful therapeutic strategies is to practise breathing exercises. Breathing through a paper bag is also recommended.
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