Acid-Base Balance – Acidosis
Definition
Acidosis is a condition characterized by an excess of acid in the body fluids, leading to a decrease in blood pH.
Types of Acidosis
- Metabolic acidosis: due to an increase in acid production or a decrease in bicarbonate levels
- Respiratory acidosis: due to inadequate ventilation or alveolar hypoventilation
Causes of Metabolic Acidosis
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Lactic acidosis (e.g., due to tissue hypoxia or severe infection)
- Renal tubular acidosis
- Ingestion of acidic substances (e.g., aspirin, methanol)
- Intestinal drainage of acidic substances (e.g., from bowel obstruction)
- Prolonged nasogastric suction
- Severe diarrhea
- Certain medications (e.g., salicylates, tetracyclines)
- Increased production of acidic compounds (e.g., lactic acid, ketones)
Clinical Features of Metabolic Acidosis
- Tachypnea (rapid breathing)
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mental status changes (e.g., confusion, lethargy)
Laboratory Findings of Metabolic Acidosis
- Arterial blood gas analysis: decreased pH, decreased bicarbonate levels, increased anion gap
- Serum electrolyte levels: decreased bicarbonate, decreased potassium, increased chloride
- Urine pH: may be acidic or normal
Complications of Metabolic Acidosis
- Cardiac arrest
- Respiratory failure
- Renal failure
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Altered mental status
Management of Metabolic Acidosis
- Identify and treat the underlying cause
- Administer bicarbonate supplements (if necessary)
- Correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances
- Provide respiratory support (if necessary)
- Monitor vital signs and laboratory values closely
Homoeopathic Therapeutic Approach
- Use remedies that address the underlying cause of acidosis (e.g., Natrum muriaticum for diabetic ketoacidosis)
- Select remedies that address the symptoms of acidosis (e.g., Carbo vegetabilis for nausea and vomiting)
- Consider using remedies that have a direct effect on the acid-base balance (e.g., Calcarea carbonica)
Homoeopathic Medicines
- Natrum muriaticum: for diabetic ketoacidosis
- Carbo vegetabilis: for nausea and vomiting
- Calcarea carbonica: for acid-base balance
- Kali carbonicum: for renal tubular acidosis
- Acidum phosphoricum: for lactic acidosis