Physical Address

304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Respiratory alkalosis


Respiratory alkalosis is a common disorder in critically ill patients. It occurs when carbon dioxide is lost via excessive pulmonary ventilation (↑ pH, ↓ p CO 2 ). Compensatory mechanisms are:

  • ■

    ↓ HCO 3 − by bicarbonate buffer system

  • ■

    ↑ H + by kidneys (slow process – may take several days).

Causes (any cause of hyperventilation)

Central nervous system

  • ●

    Pyrexia

  • ●

    Pain

  • ●

    Anxiety

  • ●

    Hysteria

  • ●

    Head injury

  • ●

    Stroke

  • ●

    Encephalitis

You're Reading a Preview

Become a Clinical Tree membership for Full access and enjoy Unlimited articles

Become membership

If you are a member. Log in here

Related Posts