Several factors can increase the acid level in the body, leading to a condition known as acidosis. These factors can be broadly categorized by their underlying mechanisms.
Causes of Increased Acidity
Increased acidity in the body, or acidosis, can stem from various underlying health conditions and physiological processes. Here's a breakdown of key contributors:
- Kidney Problems:
- Kidney disease and kidney failure impair the kidneys' ability to remove excess acids and regulate bicarbonate levels in the blood, leading to metabolic acidosis. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance.
- Uncontrolled Diabetes:
- Untreated diabetes can cause diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, the body starts breaking down fat for energy because it can't use glucose. This process produces ketones, which are acidic and accumulate in the blood.
- Loss of Bicarbonate:
- Conditions that cause the loss of bicarbonate, a base that neutralizes acids, can lead to acidosis. This can occur through severe diarrhea, certain kidney diseases, or medications.
- Blood Poisoning (Sepsis):
- Sepsis is a severe bloodstream infection that can disrupt the body's metabolism and lead to the buildup of lactic acid, causing lactic acidosis.
- Respiratory Issues:
- Respiratory acidosis occurs when the lungs cannot remove enough carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body. This can be caused by lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or conditions that impair breathing. The buildup of CO2 in the blood increases acidity.
- Other Factors:
- Severe dehydration, poisoning from substances like antifreeze (ethylene glycol) or aspirin, and certain metabolic disorders can also contribute to acidosis.
Types of Acidosis
Acidosis is generally classified into two main types, based on the underlying cause:
- Metabolic Acidosis: This results from a buildup of acids in the body due to metabolic processes or the loss of bicarbonate.
- Respiratory Acidosis: This results from the lungs' inability to remove carbon dioxide effectively.
Addressing Acidosis
Addressing acidosis requires identifying and treating the underlying cause. This may involve medications, fluids, bicarbonate therapy, or other interventions to restore acid-base balance. If you suspect you have acidosis, seek medical attention promptly.
