Respiratory Alkalosis

CO2 + H2O ↔ H2CO3 ↔ H+ + HCO3–

In respiratory alkalosis there is low pCO2 and a consequent high pH as a result of the equation moving to the left and lowering H+. pCO2 has been lowered by either hyperventilation or drug-induced stimulation of breathing. [2,3]

Respiratory alkalosis is often associated with processes that cause hyperventilation – differentials can be remembered with CHAMPS. [8]

“CHAMPS“ [8]

  • CNS disease (stroke, haemorrhage, psychogenic)
  • Hypoxia (pneumonia, PE, asthma, altitude)
  • Anxiety, pain
  • Mechanical or excessive ventilation
  • Progesterone, pregnancy
  • Salicylates and sepsis
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