Alkalosis

[Kai]

Alkalosis is excessive blood alkalinity caused by an overabundance of bicarbonate in the blood or a loss of acid from the blood (metabolic alkalosis), or by a low level of carbon dioxide in the blood that results from rapid or deep breathing (respiratory alkalosis).

People may have irritability, muscle twitching, muscle cramps, or even muscle spasms.
Blood is tested to diagnose alkalosis.
Metabolic alkalosis is treated by replacing water and mineral salts such as sodium and potassium (electrolytes) and correcting the cause.
Respiratory alkalosis is treated by correcting the cause.

(See also Overview of Acid-Base Balance.)