Question

everything you know about respiratory acidosis. I want it typed. thank you.

Answer 1

Respiratory acidosis is an acid base imbalance disorder.

The normal PaCO2 levels is 35-45 mmHg. When the level of PaCO2 exceeds this range it results in hypercapnia. The ratio of bicarbonate/PaCO2 decreases resulting in low body pH. Hypercapnia occurs when CO2 produced by body cannot be expelled out of the body due to hypoventilation.

Causes:

1. COPD, asthma, bronchitis

2. Trauma to chest

3. Neuromuscular diseases like myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophy

4. Neurological disorders like brainstem diseases

5. CNS depression due to narcotics,CNS depressants

6. Kyphoscoliosis, flial chest and other chest wall deformities

Symptoms :

1. Cyanosis

2. Clubbing

3. CNS symptoms like confusion, disorientation, seizures

4. Headache, nausea and vomiting

5. Papilledema

Diagnosis :

Respiratory acidosis can be diagnosed through arterial blood gas analysis, electrolyte workup, pulmonary function tests.

Management :

1. pharmacological therapy includes bronchodilators, respiratory stimulants, bocarbonate.

2. Oxygen therapy

3. Ventilatory support