Respiratory alkalosis is a condition of excessive alkalinity of the body, most often associated with respiratory (breathing) disorders. The pH (a measure of acidity) is elevated and carbon dioxide levels are reduced. Common causes include hyperventilation ( increased rate of breathing ), anxiety , and fever . The symptoms may include light-headedness , dizziness , and numbness of the hands and feet. The treatment includes removal of the cause. Breathing into a paper bag (or use of a mask that causes re-breathing of carbon dioxide) helps reduce symptoms in some cases.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath may result in respiratory alkalosis. Fever and anxiety are also common causes of hyperventilation.
Treatment
Treatment is aimed at the disease that causes hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis. Life-threatening respiratory alkalosis is very rare.
Expectations (prognosis)
The prognosis is based on the disease that causes the respiratory alkalosis.
Complications
Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of lung disease, such as chronic cough or shortness of breath.