Definition of Respiratory alkalosis:

Respiratory alkalosis is a condition marked by low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood due to breathing excessively.

See also: Alkalosis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Common causes include:

• Anxiety
• Fever
• Hyperventilation

Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath can also result in respiratory alkalosis.

Symptoms:

The symptoms may include:

• Dizziness
• Light-headedness
• Numbness of the hands and feet

Signs and tests:

• Arterial blood gas
• Chest x-ray
• Pulmonary function test

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at the condition that causes respiratory alkalosis. Breathing into a paper bag -- or using a mask that causes you to re-breathe carbon dioxide -- sometimes helps reduce symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis is based on the condition that causes the respiratory alkalosis.

Complications:

Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of lung disease, such as chronic cough or shortness of breath.