Overview
Respiratory alkalosis is a condition characterized by decreased carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels in the blood due to excessive breathing (hyperventilation), which raises blood pH above normal (alkalosis). This imbalance can disrupt normal physiological functions and often indicates an underlying health issue. Korea offers advanced diagnostic and treatment services to effectively manage respiratory alkalosis and its causes.
What is Respiratory Alkalosis?
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when rapid or deep breathing leads to excessive loss of CO₂ from the bloodstream. This reduction in CO₂ causes the blood to become more alkaline, affecting the body’s acid-base balance.
Symptoms
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Tingling or numbness in hands, feet, or around the mouth
- Muscle spasms or cramps
- Palpitations or chest discomfort
- Anxiety or panic sensations
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Causes
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Fever or pain
- Hypoxia (low oxygen levels), such as from high altitude or lung disease
- Pulmonary embolism
- Sepsis or severe infections
- Certain medications stimulating respiratory drive
- Mechanical ventilation settings
Risk Factors
- Stressful or anxiety-prone individuals
- Lung diseases such as pneumonia or asthma
- Heart or liver failure
- High altitudes
- Use of stimulants or some medications
Complications
- Muscle tetany due to decreased calcium availability
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Impaired oxygen delivery to tissues
- Worsening symptoms of underlying illness
Prevention
- Managing anxiety and stress through counseling or medication
- Prompt treatment of infections and lung conditions
- Proper adjustment of mechanical ventilation in hospital settings
- Avoidance of known triggers
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis to measure CO₂ levels and blood pH
- Oxygen saturation monitoring
- Imaging studies like chest X-ray or CT scan to identify lung pathology
- Assessment of underlying causes through laboratory and clinical evaluations
Medical Treatments
- Breathing techniques such as controlled slow breathing or paper bag rebreathing (under supervision)
- Anxiety management including counseling and medications
- Oxygen therapy if hypoxia is present
- Treatment of underlying conditions such as infections or pulmonary embolism
Interventional & Surgical Treatments
- Rarely required, except for underlying conditions needing surgery (e.g., pulmonary embolism removal)
Advanced Therapies
- Use of biofeedback and relaxation therapy for chronic hyperventilation syndrome
- Multidisciplinary care involving pulmonologists, psychiatrists, and critical care teams
Rehabilitation and Support
- Patient education on breathing exercises
- Psychological support for anxiety or panic disorders
- Regular follow-up to monitor and manage chronic conditions
- Lifestyle modifications to reduce stress
Top Hospitals or Clinics in Korea for Respiratory Alkalosis
- Seoul National University Hospital – Comprehensive pulmonary and psychiatric care
- Asan Medical Center – Advanced diagnostics and multidisciplinary treatment
- Samsung Medical Center – Expertise in respiratory and critical care medicine
- Yonsei Severance Hospital – Integrated approach to pulmonary and mental health
- Korea University Anam Hospital – Specialized in respiratory disorders and anxiety management
