Alkalosis

Table of Contents

Other names

Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Systemic alkalosis
Alkalemia
High blood pH

Synopsis

Alkalosis refers to a condition where the body’s pH level becomes abnormally alkaline (basic), rising above the normal range of 7.35–7.45. This means the blood pH exceeds 7.45, disrupting the delicate acid-base balance essential for normal cellular and metabolic function. Alkalosis can be classified as metabolic or respiratory, depending on whether the imbalance is caused by metabolic processes (e.g., loss of stomach acid or excessive bicarbonate) or respiratory processes (e.g., excessive breathing leading to carbon dioxide loss).

Mild alkalosis may not cause noticeable symptoms, but more severe cases can disrupt electrolyte balance, particularly potassium, calcium, and chloride, leading to muscle weakness, cramps, confusion, and heart rhythm disturbances. Treatment depends on identifying and addressing the underlying cause.

Types:

  • Metabolic alkalosis: Caused by loss of acid (e.g., vomiting) or excess bicarbonate in the blood.

  • Respiratory alkalosis: Caused by excessive loss of carbon dioxide due to hyperventilation.

  • Compensated alkalosis: When the body attempts to correct the imbalance through respiratory or renal adjustments.

  • Uncompensated alkalosis: When the body’s compensation mechanisms fail, leading to persistent pH imbalance.

Common Causes:

Metabolic Alkalosis:

  • Prolonged vomiting or gastric suction: Loss of hydrochloric acid from the stomach.

  • Diuretic use: Increases loss of potassium and chloride, disrupting acid-base balance.

  • Excessive bicarbonate intake: From antacids or intravenous bicarbonate.

  • Hypokalemia (low potassium): Causes intracellular hydrogen ions to shift, raising blood pH.

Respiratory Alkalosis:

  • Hyperventilation: Often from anxiety, pain, fever, or altitude sickness, leading to carbon dioxide loss.

  • Liver disease: Can cause hyperventilation and contribute to alkalosis.

  • Sepsis: Increases respiratory rate, leading to CO₂ depletion.

  • Pulmonary disorders: Such as pneumonia or pulmonary embolism, may induce hyperventilation.

More Severe Causes (Complications):

  • Electrolyte imbalances: Hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, and hypochloremia, leading to muscle cramps, weakness, and arrhythmias.

  • Nervous system symptoms: Lightheadedness, confusion, muscle twitching, or tingling sensations.

  • Cardiac arrhythmias: From electrolyte disturbances, especially potassium or calcium depletion.

  • Seizures: In severe cases due to calcium imbalances.

  • Impaired oxygen delivery: Alkalosis shifts the oxygen-hemoglobin curve, reducing oxygen availability to tissues.

When to See a Doctor:

  • Persistent muscle cramps, twitching, or weakness

  • Confusion, dizziness, or fainting

  • Rapid breathing, chest pain, or palpitations

  • History of conditions leading to acid-base imbalance (e.g., vomiting, diuretics, lung diseases)

  • Severe electrolyte disturbances or abnormal lab results

Natural Remedies

Breathing into a Paper Bag (Respiratory Alkalosis): Helps rebalance CO₂ levels during hyperventilation by inhaling exhaled carbon dioxide. Use only for short-term correction under supervision.

Hydration with Electrolytes: Replenishes lost electrolytes (potassium, chloride) and supports acid-base balance. Consume electrolyte-rich fluids like coconut water or oral rehydration solutions.

Potassium-Rich Foods (Bananas, Avocados, Leafy Greens): Supports potassium levels, correcting hypokalemia often associated with metabolic alkalosis. Incorporate regularly into the diet.

Chloride Intake (Sea Salt or Broth): Chloride supports acid-base balance, especially in cases of chloride-depletion alkalosis. Add mineral-rich salt or broths to meals.

Avoid Excessive Antacid Use: Overuse of bicarbonate-containing antacids can contribute to metabolic alkalosis. Consult healthcare providers for safer alternatives.

Gentle Exercise or Movement (Respiratory Alkalosis): Can regulate breathing patterns, reducing hyperventilation and CO₂ loss. Incorporate walking or yoga.

Magnesium Supplementation: Supports muscle function and electrolyte balance, particularly if magnesium is depleted. Promotes relaxation and muscle health.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.

chloride
electrolytes blend (proprietary)
magnesium
omega-3 fatty acids
potassium