NREMT Paramedic Practice

What is a leading cause of Metabolic Alkalosis?

1. Increased H production

2. Severe diarrhea

3. Excessive sodium bicarbonate intake

4. Kidney failure

The correct answer is: Excessive sodium bicarbonate intake

Metabolic alkalosis is primarily characterized by an increase in blood pH and bicarbonate levels, which can occur due to various physiological factors. One leading cause of metabolic alkalosis is the excessive intake of sodium bicarbonate. When sodium bicarbonate is consumed in large amounts, it increases the bicarbonate concentration in the blood. This increase leads to higher pH levels, pushing the body's acid-base balance toward alkalosis. In this context, sodium bicarbonate is often used as an antacid or in medical treatments, but when taken excessively, it overwhelms the body's ability to compensate, resulting in metabolic alkalosis. Balancing bicarbonate levels is critical, as the body strives to maintain homeostasis in acid-base levels. The other factors mentioned do not directly lead to metabolic alkalosis. For instance, increased hydrogen production typically causes acidosis, severe diarrhea results in loss of bicarbonate rather than its accumulation, and kidney failure often leads to retention of acids and can thus contribute to acidosis rather than alkalosis.