Physiologic Effects of Alkalosis
| Respiratory Effects |
- Shift of oxyhaemoglobin dissociation curve to the left (impaired unloading of oxygen
- The above effect is however balanced by an increase in 2,3 DPG levels in RBCs.
- Inhibition of respiratory drive via the central & peripheral chemoreceptors
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| Cardiovascular Effects |
- Depression of myocardial contractility
- Arrhythmias
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| Central Nervous System Effects |
- Cerebral vasoconstriction leads to a decrease in cerebral blood flow (result in confusion, muoclonus, asterixis, loss of consciousness and seizures) Only seen in acute respiratory alkalosis. Effect last only about 6 hours.
- Increased neuromuscular excitability ( resulting in paraesthesias such as circumoral tingling & numbness; carpopedal spasm) Seen particularly in acute respiratory alkalosis.
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| Other Effects |
- Causes shift of hydrogen ions into cells, leading to hypokalemia.
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Note: Most of the above effects are short lasting.
