10 Side Effects of Diuretics
Side Effect #7: Metabolic Acidosis
Metabolic acidosis is a condition that occurs when there is excessive acid production or when there is inadequate acid removal through the kidneys. Metabolic acidosis can result in acidemia. This occurs when the blood pH is less than 7.35 due to increased hydrogen ion production or inability to form bicarbonate.
There are many causes for metabolic acidosis. Complications of metabolic acidosis are severe, leading to coma and death. Symptoms include altered mental status, headache, palpitations, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, joint pain, and bone pain. Kussmaul respirations may also occur. Causes of metabolic acidosis include ketoacidosis, chronic kidney failure, infection, lactic acidosis, side effects of diuretics, and intoxication from salicylates, formaldehyde, isoniazid, sulfates, and metformin.
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