Lactic Acidosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Chetan Rathi , Gastroenterologists Medical

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Lactic acidosis is a serious condition marked by the buildup of lactic acid in the body, which can lower blood pH and disrupt normal function. It primarily affects the muscles, liver, kidneys, and heart.
The condition can range from mild to life-threatening, making early detection and prompt medical care crucial. Proper management helps prevent complications and supports long-term well-being.

What are the Lactic Acidosis Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Lactic acidosis can show up in subtle or severe ways, depending on its cause. Recognizing the early signs can help avoid complications.

Common symptoms

• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal discomfort
• Muscle weakness
• General fatigue or lethargy

Severe symptoms

• Confusion or altered mental status
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Low blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat

If you experience these symptoms, especially with underlying conditions like kidney or liver issues, seek immediate medical care.

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What are the Different Types of Lactic Acidosis?

There are two primary types of lactic acidosis, each with distinct causes and characteristics:

• Type A Lactic Acidosis: Linked to tissue hypoxia (lack of oxygen). It often results from conditions such as sepsis, cardiac arrest, or severe anemia.
• Type B Lactic Acidosis: Occurs without oxygen deficiency. Causes include liver failure, chronic kidney disease, specific medications (e.g., metformin), and inherited metabolic disorders.

Understanding these types helps guide appropriate treatment and care.

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What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Lactic Acidosis?

Lactic acidosis can develop from various health conditions and external factors. Knowing what leads to it may help reduce the risk.

Causes

• Use of certain medications, especially metformin
• Severe infections such as sepsis
• Cardiac conditions like heart failure or cardiac arrest
• Liver failure or dysfunction
• Inherited metabolic disorders

Risk Factors

• Kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Chronic alcohol use
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Advanced age
• Major surgical procedures

You should consult a doctor if you have one or more risk factors and notice unexplained symptoms.

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How Lactic Acidosis is Diagnosed?

Timely diagnosis is key to managing lactic acidosis effectively. At Medicover, our experts follow a complete evaluation process.

Common diagnostic methods include:

• Blood tests: Lactate levels are measured; levels above 5 mmol/L are concerning.
• Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis: Assesses blood pH and bicarbonate levels.
• Kidney and liver function tests: To detect underlying issues.
• Imaging tests: CT or MRI may be used if complications are suspected.

Medicover's multidisciplinary approach ensures accurate diagnosis with advanced lab and imaging support across all branches.

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What are the Treatment Options for Lactic Acidosis?

Treatment begins with identifying and addressing the root cause. Medicover's approach combines immediate care with long-term solutions.

Primary treatments include

• Oxygen therapy: Enhances oxygen delivery to tissues.
• IV fluids: Restores hydration and supports kidney function.
• Bicarbonate therapy: Used selectively to stabilize blood pH.

Depending on the cause

• Stopping medications like metformin when needed
• Antibiotics and intensive care for infections
• Cardiac or liver support for underlying organ conditions

Medicover's internal medicine, nephrology, and critical care teams collaborate to deliver prompt and precise treatment.

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When to See a Doctor?

If symptoms such as rapid breathing, confusion, or extreme fatigue last more than a few hours, or if you're a high-risk patient with diabetes, kidney, or liver issues, see a doctor immediately.

Delayed care can lead to life-threatening complications. Medicover's emergency care and specialists ensure you receive quick and reliable help.

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What is the Recovery Process After Lactic Acidosis Treatment?

Recovery depends on the severity and cause. Most patients begin to feel better within a few days of proper treatment.

Key elements of recovery:

• Regular follow-ups with specialists
• Blood tests to monitor lactate and organ function
• Nutrition guidance to support metabolic balance
• Medication review to prevent recurrence

Medicover offers continuous support post-treatment, including consultations with dietitians, nephrologists, and internists to ensure holistic recovery.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Lactic Acidosis?

You can reduce your risk of lactic acidosis by adopting a proactive health approach.

Prevention

• Maintain hydration
• Monitor kidney and liver function regularly
• Manage diabetes effectively
• Follow prescribed medication doses
• Schedule routine health checkups

Complications if untreated

• Organ failure
• Prolonged ICU stays
• Increased mortality risk

Medicover's preventive health programs are designed to detect early signs and minimize risks.

Our Experience Treating Lactic Acidosis

At Medicover, we understand how critical prompt care is for lactic acidosis. With advanced diagnostics, dedicated ICUs, and expert teams across departments,

We provide timely, compassionate care to help you recover quickly and safely. Every treatment plan is individual to ensure your health and comfort are always our top priority.

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