To function properly, the body needs to keep acid and electrolyte levels within a relatively narrow range. Too much or too little acid can cause cells to malfunction, as can problems with potassium levels.
Identification
Acidosis is the result of excess acid building up in the blood, potentially due to decreased kidney function. Acidosis can also lead to changes in electrolyte levels in the blood. These electrolyte imbalances can lead to abnormally low levels of potassium in the blood, known as hypokalemia.
Causes
The most common cause of acidosis and hypokalemia, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders explains, is a condition known as renal tubular acidosis. This disease is the result of a problem with the tubes in the kidneys, which are responsible for making urine. Renal tubular acidosis can either be a genetic disease or occur as the result of some other disease that affects the kidneys as well as other tissues, such as sickle cell anemia or lupus.
Symptoms
Renal tubular acidosis can cause a number of symptoms aside from changes in the blood's acid and electrolyte levels, Medline explains. Patients may become confused, feel fatigued and experience rapid breathing. It can also cause problems with bone growth and low urine output. Patients may also develop bone pain, kidney stones and muscle cramping. More importantly, changes in potassium levels can affect the heart, leading to a fast or irregular heartbeat. Renal tubular acidosis can also cause pain in the flanks, back and abdomen.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing renal tubular acidosis can usually be done using blood tests that measure the amounts of acid and potassium in the patient's blood. Medline notes that the urine can also be analyzed; patients with renal tubular acidosis typically have urine that has too little acid in it. The urine may also contain abnormally high levels of calcium and potassium as a result of the kidneys being unable to filter out these substances properly.
Treatment
Treatment of renal tubular acidosis is usually achieved by attempting to neutralize the excess acid in the body, the Merck Manual explains. This can be done by infusing a sodium bicarbonate solution into the patient's blood. Potassium supplements may also be used to help treat the potassium deficiency. Although this method of treatment does not correct the underlying kidney problems, it will keep the disease from progressing and can help prevent some of the complications of renal tubular acidosis.
