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Definition:
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Respiratory alkalosis is a condition marked by low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood due to breathing excessively.
See also: Alkalosis
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Alternative Names:
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Alkalosis - respiratory
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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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Common causes include:
Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath can also cause respiratory alkalosis.
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Symptoms:
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The symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Numbness of the hands and feet
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Signs and tests:
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Your doctor or nurse will perform a physical exam. Tests that may be done include:
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Treatment:
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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.
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Expectations (prognosis):
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What will happen depends on the condition that is causing the respiratory alkalosis.
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Complications:
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Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare.
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Calling your health care provider:
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Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of lung disease, such as chronic cough or shortness of breath.
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References:
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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.
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