Hypochloremic alkalosis is a condition where the body has low levels of chloride due to extreme chloride loss. Symptoms include muscle twitching, numbness, and confusion. Treatment involves correcting dehydration with intravenous fluids and electrolytes. Complications can arise if left untreated.
Hypochloremic alkalosis is a medical condition in which the patient’s body has abnormally low levels of chloride. This condition usually results from an extremely high chloride loss, rather than a low chloride intake. Patients who may be at risk of hypochloraemic alkalosis should monitor themselves for warning signs and seek medical attention promptly when necessary.
Chloride is a type of electrolyte that the body needs to function properly. This electrolyte plays a key role in maintaining blood pressure, blood volume, and the pH of fluids in the body. It also works to regulate the amount of fluid in the body’s cells.
There are different types of alkalosis, such as respiratory alkalosis and metabolic alkalosis. This general condition indicates that the body fluids have too much base, or alkali, instead of being too acidic. Normally, the kidneys and lungs regulate these chemicals. A patient with hypochloremic alkalosis may have an underlying medical condition.
Some people develop this type of alkalosis from persistent vomiting, which causes extreme fluid loss. Even hospitalized children receiving diuretic therapy can develop hypochloremic alkalosis. Gastroesophageal reflux, which refers to the upward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus, may also be the underlying cause. Babies who present with frequent, violent vomiting may have a condition called pyloric stenosis, which can cause excessive chloride loss from the body.
Patients who have hypochloremic alkalosis may notice their muscles twitch or have persistent muscle spasms. They may also experience hand tremors and numbness in the extremities and facial region. Other symptoms may include dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Confusion is also a common symptom, and patients may eventually fall into a stupor or coma.
Complications such as brain damage can develop if patients are not treated promptly. Those who have symptoms of hypochloremic alkalosis will likely be examined for signs of dehydration. Your doctor will typically take urine and blood samples for analysis before starting treatment.
Generally, those with chronic, rather than acute, hypochloremic alkalosis will be treated more slowly, or over the course of about 24 hours. An isotonic sodium chloride solution will be given and intravenous fluids will be used to correct the patient’s dehydration. Over the next 72 hours, your doctor will give you maintenance doses of fluids and electrolytes. When the patient’s condition has been sufficiently corrected, subsequent maintenance doses of potassium and chloride salts may be prescribed.
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