METABOLIC ALKALOSIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Metabolic alkalosis is a medical condition characterized by an elevation in the pH value of the blood and body fluids above the normal range, specifically due to an excess of bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) in the bloodstream. It occurs as a result of various underlying metabolic disturbances that lead to an increase in the body's alkaline substances or a decrease in acidic substances.
The primary cause of metabolic alkalosis is generally an abnormal loss of acid from the body, which can occur through vomiting, excessive use of diuretics, or ingestion of certain medications. This loss of acid disrupts the balance between acidic and alkaline substances, leading to an increase in the concentration of bicarbonate ions.
Metabolic alkalosis is associated with various symptoms, including weakness, muscle twitching, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and respiratory difficulties. The severity of symptoms depends on the degree of alkalosis and the underlying cause.
Diagnosis of metabolic alkalosis involves measuring arterial blood gas levels, electrolyte levels, and conducting a thorough medical history and physical examination. Treatment primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve addressing dehydration, discontinuing diuretic medication, or treating an underlying condition causing the vomiting.
In some cases, intravenous administration of saline solutions or specific medications may be necessary to correct the electrolyte imbalance and restore the acid-base balance. Close monitoring and follow-up are essential to prevent complications and ensure appropriate management of metabolic alkalosis.
Common Misspellings for METABOLIC ALKALOSIS
- netabolic alkalosis
- ketabolic alkalosis
- jetabolic alkalosis
- mwtabolic alkalosis
- mstabolic alkalosis
- mdtabolic alkalosis
- mrtabolic alkalosis
- m4tabolic alkalosis
- m3tabolic alkalosis
- merabolic alkalosis
- mefabolic alkalosis
- megabolic alkalosis
- meyabolic alkalosis
- me6abolic alkalosis
- me5abolic alkalosis
- metzbolic alkalosis
- metsbolic alkalosis
- metwbolic alkalosis
- metqbolic alkalosis
Etymology of METABOLIC ALKALOSIS
The word "metabolic" comes from the Greek word "metabolē", which means "change" or "transformation". It refers to the chemical processes in the body that convert food into energy and build or break down substances. The term "alkalosis" is formed by combining the Greek word "alkalē", which means "alkali" or "base", and the suffix "-osis", which denotes a state or condition. Therefore, "metabolic alkalosis" describes a biochemical condition characterized by an increase in the pH and bicarbonate levels in the body fluids due to metabolic processes.
Similar spelling words for METABOLIC ALKALOSIS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
