The differentiation between metabolic acidosis and alkalosis is based on the results of PH, bicarbonate level in the blood, and the amount of BE.
The most common cause of metabolic acidosis is the excessive production of acid in the body, which is manifested by a decrease in bicarbonate levels, a base residual of <-3, a compensatory decrease in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide, a pH lower than 7.35, and a decrease in the BE, which can help to differentiate metabolic acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis is a clinical condition in which there is excessive loss of acid from the body or excessive entry of alkali from outside the body. It is characterized by an elevated bicarbonate level, a base residual greater than 3, a pH higher than 7.45, and a rising BE. The combination of these results can help confirm the diagnosis of metabolic alkalosis.
After metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, the acid-base balance and electrolyte balance should be adjusted in time to ensure normal metabolism.