In physiology, acidosis is any condition tending to elevate the hydrogen ion concentration of arterial plasma, making the blood more acidic. Generally, acidosis is said to occur when pH falls below 7.35. Its counterpart (alkalosis) occurs at a pH over 7.45. Arterial blood gas analysis and other tests are required to seperate the main causes.
Types:
Various degrees of compensation may occur, depending on the nature of the acidosis and integrity of the compensatory mechanisms.
Treatment depends almost entirely on the underlying cause.
Last updated: 02-07-2005 06:26:50