Understanding Blood Acidosis: Causes, Symptoms & Types

Blood acidosis is a condition by which the blood is excessively acidic. There are two main types of blood acidosis, each with its own symptoms and causes.

Metabolic Acidosis Causes

• Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is too much acid in the blood or there is a loss of bicarbonate in the blood. It may be caused by the ingestion of highly acidic substances.

Metabolic Acidosis Symptoms

• Symptoms of metabolic acidosis include vomiting, nausea and fatigue. Patients may also breathe faster and deeper than usual.

Respiratory Acidosis Causes

• Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood due to slowed breathing or poor lung functioning that prevents the lungs from expelling sufficient carbon dioxide.

Respiratory Acidosis Symptoms

• Those suffering from respiratory acidosis may have slow, shallow breathing and will suffer from headaches and confusion.

Treatment

• Blood acidosis is often not treated directly. Rather, doctors seek to treat its cause.