Hospital Virtual Tour

Metabolic acidosis - Treatment

Alternative Names

Acidosis - metabolic

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at the underlying condition. In certain circumstances, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) may be given to improve the acidity of the blood.

Expectations (prognosis):

What can be expected will depend on the underlying disease causing the metabolic acidosis.

Complications:

When very severe, metabolic acidosis can lead to shock or death.

Calling your health care provider:

Seek medical treatment if you develop symptoms of any disease that can cause metabolic acidosis.

Insulin production and diabetes

Reviewed last on: 11/15/2009
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Seifter JL. Acid-base disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier. 2007: chap 119.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Home > Medical Reference > Encyclopedia (English)