Metabolic alkalosis


Metabolic alkalosis results from altered metabolism.

Results in decreased hydrogen ion concentration leading to increased bicarbonate and carbon dioxide concentrations.

Causes

Metabolic alkalosis most commonly occurs when a person vomits profusely, which depletes the body of H<sup>+</sup> ions leading to an increase of bicarbonate in the body.

If metabolic alkalosis is accompanied by ECF (extracellular fluid) volume contraction (e.g., vomiting), the reabsorption of HCO3<sup>-</sup> increases (secondary to ECF volume contraction and with the help of aldosterone in collecting tubule), worsening the metabolic alkalosis (also known as contraction alkalosis.[1][2]). (See also loop diuretics and hyperaldosteronism.)

Compensation

The body attempts to compensate for the increase in pH by retaining CO2 through hypoventilation (respiratory compensation). CO2 combines with elements in the bloodstream to form carbonic acid, thus decreasing pH.

Renal compensation for metabolic alkalosis consists of increased excretion of HCO3- (Bicarbonate), because the filtered load of HCO3- exceeds the ability of the renal tubule to reabsorb it.

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