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Metabolic acidosis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

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):

The prognosis of metabolic acidosis depends on the underlying disease.

Complications:

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

Calling your health care provider:

Seek medical treatment if symptoms of any disease that causes metabolic acidosis appear.

References:

Judge BS. Metabolic Acidosis: Differentiating the Causes in the Poisoned Patient.  Med Clin North Am . 2005 Nov; 89(6); 1107-1124.

Kraut JA. Metabolic acidosis of CKD: diagnosis, clinical characteristics, and treatment. Am J Kidney Dis . 2005; 45(6): 978-93.

• Review Date: 2/13/2006
• Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, CriticalCare & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Reviewprovided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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