Definition

Metabolic acidosis is a disturbance in the body's acid-base balance that results in excessive acidity of the blood.

Causes

Metabolic acidosis can occur as a result of many different conditions such as, diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney failure and shock.

Swallowing toxic substances such as antifreeze or excessive amounts of aspirin can also lead to metabolic acidosis.

Symptoms

Most symptoms are caused by the disease or condition that is causing the metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis itself usually causes rapid breathing. Confusion or lethargy may also occur.

Exams and Tests

Blood tests to diagnose metabolic acidosis may include:

• A metabolic panel to reveal the cause and severity of the metabolic acidosis
• An arterial blood gas to assess the severity of the metabolic acidosis
• A complete blood count (CBC) to assess possible causes of metabolic acidosis

Treatment

Treatment is primarily aimed at the underlying condition.

In certain circumstances, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) may be given to improve the acidity of the blood.

Prevention

Keeping type 1 diabetes under control may help prevent many cases of metabolic acidosis.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The prognosis of metabolic acidosis depends on the underlying disease.