ACIDOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Acidosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive acidity in the body fluids or tissues, resulting from an imbalance in the levels of acids and bases. It occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of acidic compounds or a decrease in the concentration of alkaline compounds, leading to a decrease in the pH level of the blood and other bodily fluids.
The body maintains a delicate balance between acidity and alkalinity, known as the acid-base balance, which is crucial for the normal functioning of various physiological processes. Acidosis disrupts this balance, leading to impairment in the functioning of organs and systems.
There are different types of acidosis, including metabolic acidosis and respiratory acidosis. Metabolic acidosis occurs due to an excess production of acids, a loss of alkaline compounds, or the inability of the kidneys to eliminate acids effectively. Respiratory acidosis, on the other hand, develops when the lungs fail to expel enough carbon dioxide, resulting in an accumulation of acidic compounds in the blood.
Symptoms of acidosis may include fatigue, confusion, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and reduced appetite. The condition can be caused by various factors, such as uncontrolled diabetes, kidney disease, respiratory disorders, severe diarrhea, and certain medications.
Treatment of acidosis depends on the underlying cause and may involve addressing the acid-base imbalance, treating the primary condition, and administering intravenous fluids or medications to restore normal pH levels. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications associated with acidosis and restore the acid-base balance in the body.
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Oxyosis; a condition in which there is an excess of acid products in the blood or excreted in the urine; there may be an excessive formation, or a deficient oxidation of the amount normally formed; when the condition gives rise to morbid symptoms it is called acid intoxication.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACIDOSIS
Etymology of ACIDOSIS
The word "acidosis" is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "acid", which comes from the Greek word "axios" meaning "sharp" or "acidic"
2. "osis", which is a suffix used to form nouns indicating a condition or state
When combined, "acidosis" refers to a condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of acid, usually in the blood or body tissues.
Similar spelling words for ACIDOSIS
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