Difference between Metabolic Alkalosis and Respiratory Alkalosis | Acid-Base Regulation

The upcoming discussion will update you about the difference between Metabolic Alkalosis and Respiratory Alkalosis.

Difference # Metabolic Alkalosis:

1. HCO₃^– excess.

2. pH increased.

3. Disproportionate increase in [HCO₃^– ], [H₂CO₃], PCO₂, pH.

4. Depression of respiratory centre and hyperventilation leading to retention of CO₂.

5. In renal mechanism, there is increased NH₃ formation and H⁺ – Na⁺ exchange, increased K⁺ excretion, decreased reabsorption, retention of CI^–.

6. Urine shows alkaline, decreased NH₃, and decreased titratable acidity.

7. Low Ca⁺⁺ leading to tetany, hypokalemia, ketosis and ketonuria, degenerative changes in tubules leading to nitrogen retention.

8. Causes are excessive loss of HCI, high intestinal obstruction, pyloric obstruction, alkali ingestion, excessive loss of K⁺, X-ray therapy, ultra violet radiation.

Difference # Respiratory Alkalosis:

1. H₂CO₃ deficit.

2. pH increased.

3. Disproportionate decrease in [HCO₃^–], [H₂CO₃], PCO₂, pH.

4. In renal mechanism, there is decreased H⁺-Na⁺ exchange, decreased excretion of acid and ammonia, increased excretion of HCO₃^– and K⁺, retention of CI^–.

5. Hypoventilation due to respiratory high pH and low PCO₂ and increase in H₂CO₃.

6. Urine show’s alkaline, decreased NH₃ and decreased titratable acidity.

7. Low Ca⁺⁺ leading to tetany, hypokalemia, ketosis and ketonuria, kidney damage leading to nitrogen retention.

8. Causes are CNS diseases like meningitis and encephalitis, salicylate poisoning, hyperpyrexia, hysteria, high altitude ascending, apprehensive blood donors, injudicious use of respirator, some cases of hepatic coma.