Question

a. What happens in metabolic acidosis? Give one example with its clinical manifestation

b. What happens in respiratory acidosis? Give one example with its clinical manifestation

Answer 1

Acidosis means fall in pH. They are of two types :-

1. Metabolic acidosis,

2. Respiratory acidosis.

Ans.1A. Metabolic acidosis is caused due to primary deficit in the bicarbonate. This may result in accumulation of acid or depletion of bicarbonate. When there is excess acid production the bicarbonate is used up for buffering. Depending on the cause, the anion gap is altered. If there is high anion gap metabolic acidosis it cause renal failure, diabetic ketoacidosis and lactic acidosis while in normal anion gap metabolic acidosis it cause diarrhea and hyperchloremic acidosis.

The respiratory response to metabolic acidosis is is hyperventilate ie. Marked increase in respiration rate and depth and this acidosis is treated by giving IV fluids and insulin. In most cases, potassium status to be monitored closely and promptly corrected.

Ans. 1B. Respiratory acidosis is primary excess of carbonic acid. It is due to CO2 retention as a result of hyperventilation. Acute respiratory acidosis may result from bronchopneumonia. Chronic respiratory acidosis results chronic obstructive lung disease. Clinically, there is decreased respiratory rate, hypotension and coma.