Energy ideally comes from oxygen that's generated as you breathe during aerobic activities. When the body needs additional energy, such as when you exert extreme force lifting heavy weights, energy is generated through an anaerobic process that produces lactate, or lactic acid. Lactic acidosis occurs when lactate builds up faster in the bloodstream than it can be removed.
Significance
Anaerobic energy can last for 1 to 3 minutes without any significant side effects, according to the Scientific American website. After a few minutes, muscle cells become acidic and other metabolites experience significant disruption. Muscle strength and energy production decrease as the glucose breaks down through lactate production. The body kicks in its natural protection by reducing energy consumption to protect muscles that cannot continue to operate in this environment.
Misconception
The sudden release of lactic acid during strenuous weight lifting or other quick bursts of anaerobic muscle use causes the muscles to burn and sting. The long-lasting muscle soreness that follows extreme exercise does not result from excess lactate production, contrary to popular belief. Instead, according to the Scientific American website, muscle soreness that lasts up to two or three days, is the result of inflammation and muscle damage.
Potential
While lactic acidosis typically occurs following heavy weight lifting, various medical conditions also have the potential to increase lactic acid production that results in lactic acidosis. According to Medline Plus, respiratory failure, AIDS, cancer and sepsis also can cause excessive release of lactate to provide energy. A diabetic medication called metformin also causes lactate levels to increase in the muscles.
Features
Lactic acidosis primarily occurs during muscle exercises that last for a short period of time. Sprint running or swimming as well as weight lifting are the most common types of exercises that produce excessive lactic acid buildup. Long-distance runners and weight lifters using light to moderate weights rarely invoke the anaerobic state, according to Sports Fitness Advisor.
Effects
Lactic acidosis typically resolves when you stop the intense exercise. Lactate levels return to normal resting rates within 15 minutes to an hour. According to Sports Fitness Advisor, athletic training helps to accelerate the removal of lactic acid and speed up lactic acidosis recovery. Additionally, trained athletes can withstand a higher buildup of lactic acid before experiencing fatigue.
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