Acidosis Respiratory

Respiratory acidosis (a. respiratoria) is a violation of the acid-base balance in the human body, caused by a decrease in the removal of carbon dioxide from the lungs. Typically, carbon dioxide is released during breathing and eliminated through the lungs. However, with some diseases of the respiratory system, there is a decrease in the excretion of carbon dioxide, which leads to an increase in its concentration in the blood. This leads to a decrease in blood pH, which is called respiratory acidosis.

The main symptom of respiratory acidosis is rapid and deep breathing (hyperventilation). This occurs because the body is trying to get rid of excess carbon dioxide that accumulates in the blood. In addition, the patient may experience shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and muscle cramps.

The causes of respiratory acidosis can be lung diseases, such as obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, and chest injuries. In addition, respiratory acidosis can be caused by disruption of normal breathing during anesthesia or an overdose of certain drugs, such as sedatives and opiates.

To diagnose respiratory acidosis, it is necessary to conduct a blood test for pH and carbon dioxide concentration. Treatment depends on the cause of the disease and may include drug therapy, oxygen therapy, and mechanical ventilation.

In general, respiratory acidosis is a serious disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of respiratory acidosis can be very unpleasant and even dangerous to human health. Therefore, it is important to seek medical help at the first signs of illness.