Acidosis and alkalosis

ABG vs VBG

Respiratory Alkalosis

Common causes

• anxiety leading to hyperventilation
• pulmonary embolism
• salicylate poisoning*
  • [salicylate overdose leads to a mixed respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis. Early stimulation of the respiratory centre leads to a respiratory alkalosis whilst later the direct acid effects of salicylates (combined with acute renal failure) may lead to an acidosis]
• CNS disorders: stroke, subarachnoid haemorrhage, encephalitis
• altitude
• pregnancy