Respiratory alkalosis

Signs and symptoms of respiratory alkalosis are as follows: • Palpitation • Tetany • Convulsion • Sweating ==Causes==

Respiratory alkalosis may be produced as a result of the following causes: ==Mechanism==

The mechanism of respiratory alkalosis generally occurs when some stimulus makes a person hyperventilate. The increased breathing produces increased alveolar respiration, expelling CO2 from the circulation. This alters the dynamic chemical equilibrium of carbon dioxide in the circulatory system. Circulating hydrogen ions and bicarbonate are shifted through the carbonic acid (H2CO3) intermediate to make more CO2 via the enzyme carbonic anhydrase according to the following reaction: \rm HCO_3^- + H^+ \rightarrow H_2CO_3 \rightarrow CO_2 + H_2O This causes decreased circulating hydrogen ion concentration, and increased pH (alkalosis). ==Diagnosis==

The diagnosis of respiratory alkalosis is done via a test that measures the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels (in the blood), a chest x-ray, and a pulmonary function test of the individual. Classification There are two types of respiratory alkalosis: chronic and acute as a result of the 3–5 day delay in kidney compensation of the abnormality. • Acute respiratory alkalosis occurs rapidly, and has a high pH because the response of the kidneys is slow. • Chronic respiratory alkalosis is a more long-standing condition, here one finds the kidneys have time to decrease the bicarbonate level. ==Treatment==

Respiratory alkalosis is very rarely life-threatening, though pH level should not be 7.5 or greater. The aim in treatment is to detect the underlying cause. When PaCO2 is adjusted rapidly in individuals with chronic respiratory alkalosis, metabolic acidosis may occur. ==In popular culture==

In The Andromeda Strain, one of the characters is exposed to contamination, but saves himself by increasing his respiratory rate to induce alkalosis. ==See also==