If pH rises above 7.45, a state of alkalosis exists. In alkalosis, the net gain in positive intracellular charges shifts the membrane potential closer to firing level and makes the nervous system hyperexcitable. Nerves fire spontaneously and overstimulate skeletal muscles Either of these imbalances has potentially fatal effects Acid-base imbalances are classified as respiratory or metabolic. Respiratory acidosis occurs when the rate of alveolar ventilation fails to keep pace with the body's rate of carbon dioxide production. Respiratory alkalosis results from excessive ventilation, in which carbon dioxide is eliminated faster than it is produced.
Metabolic acidosis can result from elevated production of organic acids.
Dying people normally exhibit this condition. Metabolic alkalosis is rare but can result from overuse of bicarbonates or from loss of stomach acid in chronic vomiting.