Find a Doctor Employment at WakeMed Events & Education For Physicians For Employees Contact Us

Health Care Encyclopedia

Health Information Encyclopedia - Disease & Conditions


Lactic acidosis

Definition:

Lactic acidosis occurs when lactic acid accumulates in the blood stream at a faster rate than it can be eliminated. Lactic acid is produced when oxygen levels in the body drop. The most common cause is intensive exercise. However, it can also be caused by certain diseases, such as AIDS, cancer, and kidney failure.



Causes, incidence, and risk factors:



Symptoms:



Signs and tests:



Treatment:



Support Groups:



Expectations (prognosis):



Complications:



Calling your health care provider:



Prevention:




Review Date: 10/20/2004
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Heart Center
Women's Pavilion & Birthplace
Children's Center
Center for Patient Safety
Emergency Services/Trauma
Rehab


To read our disclaimer, click here