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{{WikiDoc CMG}}; {{AE}} {{MS}}
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! style="padding: 0 5px; font-size: 85%; background: #A8A8A8" align=center| {{fontcolor|#2B3B44|Respiratory alkalosis Resident Survival Guide Microchapters}}
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! style="font-size: 80%; padding: 0 5px; background: #DCDCDC" align=left | [[Respiratory alkalosis resident survival guide#Overview|Overview]]
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! style="font-size: 80%; padding: 0 5px; background: #DCDCDC" align=left | [[Respiratory alkalosis resident survival guide#Causes|Causes]]
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! style="font-size: 80%; padding: 0 5px; background: #DCDCDC" align=left | [[Respiratory alkalosis resident survival guide#Diagnosis|Diagnosis]]
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! style="font-size: 80%; padding: 0 5px; background: #DCDCDC" align=left | [[Respiratory alkalosis resident survival guide#Treatment|Treatment]]
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! style="font-size: 80%; padding: 0 5px; background: #DCDCDC" align=left | [[Respiratory alkalosis resident survival guide#Dos|Dos]]
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! style="font-size: 80%; padding: 0 5px; background: #DCDCDC" align=left | [[Respiratory alkalosis resident survival guide#Don'ts|Don'ts]]
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{{WikiDoc CMG}}; {{AE}} {{RAB}}
<br>
{{SK}} Approach to respiratory alkalosis, Respiratory alkalosis management, Respiratory alkalosis Workup
==Overview==
==Overview==
This section provides a short and straight to the point overview of the disease or symptom. The first sentence of the overview must contain the name of the disease.
The normal physiological pH of blood is 7.35 to 7.45. An increase above this range is known as alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis is a state where the body’s pH is more than 7.45 secondary to some respiratory or pulmonary cause.[[Respiratory alkalosis]] is characterized by the presence of low pCO<sub>2</sub>and high pH (>7.40). [[Respiratory alkalosis]] occurs when a person breathes too quickly or too deep and carbon dioxide levels drop too low. This causes the pH of the blood to increase and become too [[alkaline]]. It is also known as the primary [[hypocapnia]] in which patients usually present with [[hyperventilation]]. The resultant [[alkaline|alkalinization]] of body fluids is balanced by a decrease in serum [HCO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>]. Secondary [[hypocapnia]] should be differentiated from primary [[hypocapnia]], as the former occurs in response to [[metabolic acidosis]]. When [[respiratory alkalosis]] develops, a decrease in serum [HCO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>] occurs within a few minutes. This is due to non-bicarbonate buffering as well as H+ release from tissues. This buffering from various sources persists for several hours, and the resultant acid-base disturbance is called [[respiratory alkalosis|acute respiratory alkalosis]]. During acute [[respiratory alkalosis]], the H<big>+</big> secretion in both [[proximal tubule]] and [[cortical collecting duct]] is suppressed. When alkalemia persists, renal compensation starts with a decrease in both H<sup>+</sup> secretion and basolateral exit of [HCO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>]in the proximal tubule. This lowers more serum [HCO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>], due to which the pH is maintained close to normal. The complete renal compensation takes 2–3 days to occur, and when a new steady state is established, it is called chronic [[respiratory alkalosis]].


==Causes==
==Causes==
===Life Threatening Causes===
===Life-Threatening Causes===
Life-threatening causes include conditions that may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated.
Life-threatening causes of [[Respiratory alkalosis|Respiratory Alkalosis]] include:
* [[Life threatening cause 1]]
 
* [[Life threatening cause 2]]
*[[Sepsis]] ([[Cytokine]] mediated)
* [[Life threatening cause 3]]


===Common Causes===
===Common Causes===
* [[Common cause 1]]
 
* [[Common cause 2]]
*'''Central Nervous System related causes''':<ref name="urlRespiratory Alkalosis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf">{{cite web |url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482117/ |title=Respiratory Alkalosis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf |author= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date= |format= |work= |publisher= |pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate= |quote= |accessdate=}}</ref>
* [[Common cause 3]]
**Increased [[ICP|Intracranial Pressure]]<ref name="pmid29939584">{{cite journal |vauthors=Hopkins E, Sanvictores T, Sharma S |title= |journal= |volume= |issue= |pages= |date= |pmid=29939584 |doi= |url= |issn=}}</ref>
* [[Common cause 4]]
**[[Stroke]]
* [[Common cause 5]]
**[[Head injury]]
**[[Central nervous system infection|CNS infection]]
**[[Intracranial hemorrhage]]
**[[Pontine|Pontine tumors]]
**[[Anxiety]] [[Hyperventilation]]
**Voluntary [[Hyperventilation]]
**[[Sepsis]]([[Cytokine]] mediated)
**[[Chronic liver disease|Chronic Liver disease]]([[Toxin]] mediated)
**[[Drug]]<nowiki/>s([[Salicylates|Salicylate]]<nowiki/>s, [[progesterone]])
**[[Pain]]
*'''Hypoxemic causes''': [[Hypoxic]] stimulation leads to hyperventilation.
*'''Pulmonary Causes:'''
**[[Pneumonia]]
**[[Asthma]]
**[[Pulmonary edema|Pulmonary oedema]]
**[[Pulmonary thromboembolism]]
*'''Extrinsic Causes(deliberate or iatrogenic)''':
**Excessive [[minute ventilation]] during [[mechanical ventilation]]


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
Shown below is an algorithm summarizing the diagnosis of <nowiki>[[disease name]]</nowiki> according the the [...] guidelines.
Shown below is an algorithm summarizing the diagnosis of Respiratory Alkalosis:<ref name="Hasan2009">{{cite journal|last1=Hasan|first1=Ashfaq|title=Respiratory Alkalosis|year=2009|pages=207–212|doi=10.1007/978-1-84800-334-7_9}}</ref><ref name="Reddi2018">{{cite journal|last1=Reddi|first1=Alluru S.|title=Respiratory Alkalosis|year=2018|pages=441–448|doi=10.1007/978-3-319-60167-0_33}}</ref>
{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
 
{{familytree | | | | A01 | | | A01= }}
{{familytree | | | | |!| | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | B01 | | | B01= }}
{{familytree | | |,|-|^|-|.| | }}
{{familytree | | C01 | | C02 | C01= | C02= }}


{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | A01 | | | |A01=Patient with Acute [[Respiratory Alkalosis]]}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B01 | | | |B01= Take complete history}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Ask the following questions regarding CNS manifestations'''<br>
----
❑ If they felt [[dizzy]] or confused recently?
[[Light-headedness]] and [[confusion]] due to reduced [[cerebral blood flow]]<br><br> ❑ If they felt [[numbness]] or [[tingling sensation]] on peripheral parts of the body?
Acral [[paresthesia]] due to reduced blood flow to the skin<br><br> ❑ Ask if they had experienced [[tremor]] of the hand when the wrist is extended, sometimes said to resemble a bird flapping its wings to check asterexis<br><br> ❑ If there is any history of loss of [[consciousness]]<br><br> ❑ Ask about any event of [[seizures]]</div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Ask the following questions regarding Cardiovascular manifestations'''<br>
----
❑ Ask if they felt any chest discomfort or [[pain]]?
[[Chest pain]] due to vasoconstriction<br><br> ❑ If they felt their heart was racing? Ask about [[cardiac]] arrythmia<br></div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Ask the following questions regarding [[metabolic]] effects'''<br>
----
❑ Ask if they have experienced perioral [[tingling sensation|tingling sensations]]<br><br> ❑ [[Tetany]]<br><br> ❑Ask about any symptoms of mild hyponatremia, [[hypokalemia]], and [[hypophosphatemia]]</div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B01 | | | |B01= Do complete physical examination}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''[[Vital]] signs'''<br>
----
❑ Decreased blood pressure([[hypotension]]) due to [[hypoxemia]] <br><br> ❑ Increased heart rate due to [[fever]], [[anxiety]]<br><br> ❑ Increased [[temperature]] due to [[infection]] or [[sepsis]] <br> <br>❑ [[Tachypnea]] due to [[Arrhythmias]], [[hypoxemia]], [[pulmonary disease]]<br> <br>❑ Orthostatic changes due to reduced plasma volume<br><br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Examination of respiratory system'''<br>
----
❑ Inspiratory [[crackles]] if patient has pulmonary edema<br><br> ❑ Inspiratory [[ronchi]] and [[crackles]] in [[patient]] with [[pulmonary fibrosis]]<br><br> ❑ [[Tachypnea]], pulmonary rub in [[Pulmonary embolism]]<br><br> ❑ Prolonged expiratory [[wheezing]] in patient with [[Asthma]]<br><br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Examination of Cardiovascular System'''<br>
----
❑ Irregular rhythm may be seen<br><br>❑ Palpable P2, right ventricular heave may be seen if patient has [[pulmonary hypertension]]<br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Examination of Abdomen'''<br>
----
❑ [[Ascites]] in [[liver disease]]<br><br>❑ [[Gravid|Gravid uterus]] in pregnant women<br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Examination of the [[Extremities]]'''<br>
----
❑ [[Cyanosis]] due to [[hypoxemia]]<br><br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree/start |summary=Sample 10}}{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{Family tree/start}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Examination of Central Nervous System'''<br>
----
❑ [[Tremor]], [[paresthesias]]<br><br>❑ Muscle weakness [[Hypokalemia]], [[hypophosphatemia]]<br><br>❑ [[Chvostek's Sign|Chvostek’s]] and [[Trousseau's sign|Trousseau’s]] signs due to low ionized Ca<sup>2+</sup><br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B01 | | | |B01= Do following tests}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Serum [[Chemistry]]'''<br>
----
❑ Persistent hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, and low ionized
Ca2+<br><br> ❑Increased WBC if there is any infection<br><br> ❑ Decreased hemoglobin if there is [[anemia]] <br><br> ❑ Increased [[Hematocrit]] which is suggestive of exposure to [[high altitude]]<br><br> ❑ Abnormal [[liver function test]]s in [[liver disease]]<br> <br> ❑ Increased T3 and T4 and low [[TSH]] in a patient of [[hyperthyroidism]]<br><br> ❑ Positive urine β-human chorionic hormone if patient is [[pregnant]]<br><br> ❑ When both [[respiratory alkalosis]] and high [[Anion gap]] [[metabolic acidosis]] are present—suspect [[salicylate]] intake</div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Do [[Arterial Blood Gas]] (ABG)'''<br>
----
❑ Low pCO2, low serum [HCO3−], high pH<br><br> ❑ In acute respiratory alkalosis, serum [HCO3−] is around 20 mEq/L, <br>
because the secondary response to [[hypocapnia]] of 20 mmHg is a decrease of 4 mEq/L from normal [HCO3−] of 24 mEq/L<br><br> ❑ Serum [HCO3−] from normal level of 24 mEq/L drops to
16 mEq/L in chronic [[respiratory alkalosis]] for the same [[hypocapnia]] of 20 mmHg. <br><br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Do [[Chest X-ray]]'''<br> </div>}}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{Family tree | | | | | | | B02 | | | |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Do [[blood cultures]]'''<br> </div>}}
{{familytree/end}}
{{familytree/end}}


==Treatment==
==Treatment==
Shown below is an algorithm summarizing the treatment of <nowiki>[[disease name]]</nowiki> according the the [...] guidelines.
 
* Respiratory alkalosis is not self-limiting.
* Correction of the primary disorder of the [[respiratory alkalosis]] is needed
 
* Shown below is an algorithm summarizing the treatment of Respiratory Alkalosis:
 
{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{familytree/start |summary=PE diagnosis Algorithm.}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | A01 |A01= }}  
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |,|-| A01 |-| A02 | | | |A01=If [[patient]] comes with [[Anxiety]] or [[hyperventilation]]
{{familytree | | | | |,|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|.| | | }}
syndromes |A02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left; height: 10em; width: 30em; padding:1em;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
{{familytree | | | B01 | | | | | | | | B02 | | |B01= |B02= }}
----
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |!| }}
❑ Breathing into a paper or plastic bag<br>❑ Mild sedation<br>❑ Reassurance<br>❑ To view treatment of panic attack [[Panic attack|click here]] </div>}}  
{{familytree | | | C01 | | | | | | | | |!| |C01= }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | |,|-|^|.| | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| B01 |-| B02 | | | |B01=If [[patient]] is [[Hypoxic]] |B02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
{{familytree | D01 | | D02 | | | | | | D03 |D01= |D02= |D03= }}
----
{{familytree | |!| | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|.| }}
❑ Give O<sub>2</sub><br> </div> }}
{{familytree | E01 | | | | | | | E02 | | | E03 |E01= |E02= |E03= }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | C01 |-|+|-| C02 |-| C03 | | | |C01= [[Respiratory Alkalosis]]|C02=Salicylates overdose |C03=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | F01 | | | F02 |F01= |F02= }}
----
❑ Urinary alkalinization<br>❑ Forced diuresis<br> ❑ [[Dialysis]]</div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| D01 |-| D02 | | | |D01=If [[patient]] has [[Hyperthyroidism]] |D02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ [[β-Blockers]]<br>❑ [[Antithyroid]] [[medications]]<br>❑ To view treatment of hyperthyroidism [[Graves' disease hyperthyroidism medical therapy|click here]] </div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| D01 |-| D02 | | | |D01=If [[patient]] has [[Asthma]] |D02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ [[Bronchodilators]] <br>❑ [[Corticosteroid]]s<br>❑ To view treatment of [[asthma]] [[Asthma medical therapy|click here]]</div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| D01 |-| D02 | | | |D01=If [[patient]] has [[Pneumonia]] |D02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ [[Antibiotics]]<br>❑  To view treatment of [[pneumonia]] [[Pneumonia medical therapy|click here]]</div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| D01 |-| D02 | | | |D01=If [[patient]] has [[pulmonary oedema]] |D02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ [[Diuretics]]<br> ❑ Treatment and improvement in [[CHF]]<br> ❑ To view treatment of [[pulmonary edema]] [[Pulmonary edema medical therapy|click here]]</div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| D01 |-| D02 | | | |D01=If [[patient]] has [[pulmonary embolism]] |D02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ Give O<sub>2</sub><br>❑ [[Anticoagulation]] <br>❑ To view treatment of [[pulmonary embolism]] [[Pulmonary embolism medical therapy|click here]]</div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |)|-| D01 |-| D02 | | | |D01=If [[patient]] has history of going to high altitude climbing|D02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ Give O<sub>2</sub><br>❑ [[Acetazolamide]] <br>❑ To view treatment of [[altitude sickness]] [[Altitude sickness medical therapy|click here]] </div> }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |`|-| E01 |-| E02 | | | |E01= [[Mechanical ventilation]]|E02=<div style="float: left; text-align: left;"> '''Treatment options'''<br>
----
❑ Reduce ventilatory rate and tidal volume<br>❑ Increase dead space<br> ❑ Mild sedation without skeletal muscle paralysis<br> </div> }}
{{familytree/end}}
{{familytree/end}}


==Do's==
==Dos==
* The content in this section is in bullet points.
*[[Patient]] may experience faster and deeper breathing, physician should provide reassurance and empathy which can help to get patient's breathing under control.<ref name="urlRespiratory Alkalosis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention">{{cite web |url=https://www.healthline.com/health/respiratory-alkalosis |title=Respiratory Alkalosis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention |author= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date= |format= |work= |publisher= |pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate= |quote= |accessdate=}}</ref>
 
* Physicians should look for the underlying [[cause]] and its severity.
*A [[patient]] who suffers from regular respiratory alkalosis can seek help from a  therapist and can learn breathing exercises, meditation, and regular exercise.<ref name="urlRespiratory Alkalosis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention">{{cite web |url=https://www.healthline.com/health/respiratory-alkalosis |title=Respiratory Alkalosis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention |author= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date= |format= |work= |publisher= |pages= |language= |archiveurl= |archivedate= |quote= |accessdate=}}</ref>
==Don'ts==
==Don'ts==
* The content in this section is in bullet points.
* [[Patients]] should not hesitate to seek help from professionals in case of recurrence of respiratory alkalosis.
 
==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist|2}}


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Latest revision as of 21:17, 14 January 2021

Respiratory alkalosis Resident Survival Guide Microchapters
Overview
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Dos
Don'ts

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Rinky Agnes Botleroo, M.B.B.S.
Synonyms and keywords: Approach to respiratory alkalosis, Respiratory alkalosis management, Respiratory alkalosis Workup

Overview

The normal physiological pH of blood is 7.35 to 7.45. An increase above this range is known as alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis is a state where the body’s pH is more than 7.45 secondary to some respiratory or pulmonary cause.Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by the presence of low pCO2and high pH (>7.40). Respiratory alkalosis occurs when a person breathes too quickly or too deep and carbon dioxide levels drop too low. This causes the pH of the blood to increase and become too alkaline. It is also known as the primary hypocapnia in which patients usually present with hyperventilation. The resultant alkalinization of body fluids is balanced by a decrease in serum [HCO3-]. Secondary hypocapnia should be differentiated from primary hypocapnia, as the former occurs in response to metabolic acidosis. When respiratory alkalosis develops, a decrease in serum [HCO3-] occurs within a few minutes. This is due to non-bicarbonate buffering as well as H+ release from tissues. This buffering from various sources persists for several hours, and the resultant acid-base disturbance is called acute respiratory alkalosis. During acute respiratory alkalosis, the H+ secretion in both proximal tubule and cortical collecting duct is suppressed. When alkalemia persists, renal compensation starts with a decrease in both H+ secretion and basolateral exit of [HCO3-]in the proximal tubule. This lowers more serum [HCO3-], due to which the pH is maintained close to normal. The complete renal compensation takes 2–3 days to occur, and when a new steady state is established, it is called chronic respiratory alkalosis.

Causes

Life-Threatening Causes

Life-threatening causes of Respiratory Alkalosis include:

Common Causes

Diagnosis

Shown below is an algorithm summarizing the diagnosis of Respiratory Alkalosis:[3][4]


 
 
 
 
 
 
Patient with Acute Respiratory Alkalosis
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Take complete history
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ask the following questions regarding CNS manifestations

❑ If they felt dizzy or confused recently? Light-headedness and confusion due to reduced cerebral blood flow

❑ If they felt numbness or tingling sensation on peripheral parts of the body?

Acral paresthesia due to reduced blood flow to the skin

❑ Ask if they had experienced tremor of the hand when the wrist is extended, sometimes said to resemble a bird flapping its wings to check asterexis

❑ If there is any history of loss of consciousness

❑ Ask about any event of seizures
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ask the following questions regarding Cardiovascular manifestations

❑ Ask if they felt any chest discomfort or pain?

Chest pain due to vasoconstriction

❑ If they felt their heart was racing? Ask about cardiac arrythmia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ask the following questions regarding metabolic effects

❑ Ask if they have experienced perioral tingling sensations

Tetany

❑Ask about any symptoms of mild hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Do complete physical examination
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Vital signs

❑ Decreased blood pressure(hypotension) due to hypoxemia

❑ Increased heart rate due to fever, anxiety

❑ Increased temperature due to infection or sepsis

Tachypnea due to Arrhythmias, hypoxemia, pulmonary disease

❑ Orthostatic changes due to reduced plasma volume

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Examination of respiratory system

❑ Inspiratory crackles if patient has pulmonary edema

❑ Inspiratory ronchi and crackles in patient with pulmonary fibrosis

Tachypnea, pulmonary rub in Pulmonary embolism

❑ Prolonged expiratory wheezing in patient with Asthma

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Examination of Cardiovascular System

❑ Irregular rhythm may be seen

❑ Palpable P2, right ventricular heave may be seen if patient has pulmonary hypertension
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Examination of Abdomen

Ascites in liver disease

Gravid uterus in pregnant women
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Examination of the Extremities

Cyanosis due to hypoxemia

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Examination of Central Nervous System

Tremor, paresthesias

❑ Muscle weakness Hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia

Chvostek’s and Trousseau’s signs due to low ionized Ca2+
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Do following tests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Serum Chemistry

❑ Persistent hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, and low ionized

Ca2+

❑Increased WBC if there is any infection

❑ Decreased hemoglobin if there is anemia

❑ Increased Hematocrit which is suggestive of exposure to high altitude

❑ Abnormal liver function tests in liver disease

❑ Increased T3 and T4 and low TSH in a patient of hyperthyroidism

❑ Positive urine β-human chorionic hormone if patient is pregnant

❑ When both respiratory alkalosis and high Anion gap metabolic acidosis are present—suspect salicylate intake
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Do Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)

❑ Low pCO2, low serum [HCO3−], high pH

❑ In acute respiratory alkalosis, serum [HCO3−] is around 20 mEq/L,
because the secondary response to hypocapnia of 20 mmHg is a decrease of 4 mEq/L from normal [HCO3−] of 24 mEq/L

❑ Serum [HCO3−] from normal level of 24 mEq/L drops to

16 mEq/L in chronic respiratory alkalosis for the same hypocapnia of 20 mmHg.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Treatment

  • Respiratory alkalosis is not self-limiting.
  • Correction of the primary disorder of the respiratory alkalosis is needed
  • Shown below is an algorithm summarizing the treatment of Respiratory Alkalosis:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient comes with Anxiety or hyperventilation syndromes
 
Treatment options

❑ Breathing into a paper or plastic bag
❑ Mild sedation
❑ Reassurance
❑ To view treatment of panic attack click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient is Hypoxic
 
Treatment options

❑ Give O2
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Respiratory Alkalosis
 
 
 
 
Salicylates overdose
 
Treatment options

❑ Urinary alkalinization
❑ Forced diuresis
Dialysis
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient has Hyperthyroidism
 
Treatment options

β-Blockers
Antithyroid medications
❑ To view treatment of hyperthyroidism click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient has Asthma
 
Treatment options

Bronchodilators
Corticosteroids
❑ To view treatment of asthma click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient has Pneumonia
 
Treatment options

Antibiotics
❑ To view treatment of pneumonia click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient has pulmonary oedema
 
Treatment options

Diuretics
❑ Treatment and improvement in CHF
❑ To view treatment of pulmonary edema click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient has pulmonary embolism
 
Treatment options

❑ Give O2
Anticoagulation
❑ To view treatment of pulmonary embolism click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If patient has history of going to high altitude climbing
 
Treatment options

❑ Give O2
Acetazolamide
❑ To view treatment of altitude sickness click here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mechanical ventilation
 
Treatment options

❑ Reduce ventilatory rate and tidal volume
❑ Increase dead space
❑ Mild sedation without skeletal muscle paralysis
 
 
 
 
 
 

Dos

  • Patient may experience faster and deeper breathing, physician should provide reassurance and empathy which can help to get patient's breathing under control.[5]
  • Physicians should look for the underlying cause and its severity.
  • A patient who suffers from regular respiratory alkalosis can seek help from a therapist and can learn breathing exercises, meditation, and regular exercise.[5]

Don'ts

  • Patients should not hesitate to seek help from professionals in case of recurrence of respiratory alkalosis.

References

  1. "Respiratory Alkalosis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf".
  2. Hopkins E, Sanvictores T, Sharma S. PMID 29939584. Missing or empty |title= (help)
  3. Hasan, Ashfaq (2009). "Respiratory Alkalosis": 207–212. doi:10.1007/978-1-84800-334-7_9.
  4. Reddi, Alluru S. (2018). "Respiratory Alkalosis": 441–448. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-60167-0_33.
  5. 5.0 5.1 "Respiratory Alkalosis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention".