What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of bicarbonate in the blood. Bicarbonate is an electrolyte responsible for maintaining the body’s pH balance and maintains electrical neutrality at the cellular level along with other electrolytes.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- As a part of electrolyte panel
- To help in diagnosing electrolyte imbalance
- To help in diagnosing acid/base balance
- It helps in monitoring the following diseases:
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Metabolic disease
- Lung disease
- Liver disease
- Which medicines might increase bicarbonate levels?
- Bicarbonates
- Fludrocortisone
- Barbiturates
- Hydrocortisone
- Steroids
- Loop diuretics
- Which medicines might decrease bicarbonate levels?
- Thiazide diuretics
- Tetracycline
- Nitrofurantoin
- Methicillin
- Anti-viral
- Valproic acid
- What are the symptoms of metabolic acidosis?
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Confusion
- Shallow breathing
- Sleepiness
- Increased heart rate.
- What are the symptoms of metabolic alkalosis?
- Hand tremor
- Confusion
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Prolonged muscle spasm
- Numbness or tingling in hand, face, or feet
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. However, inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness
Normal range: 23-29 mmol/L
Interpretation of test results:
Causes of high bicarbonate blood levels:
- Metabolic alkalosis
- Prolonged or severe diarrhea/vomiting
- Lung disease
- Cushing syndrome.
Causes of low bicarbonate blood levels:
- Metabolic acidosis
- Respiratory alkalosis
- Kidney disease
- Addison’s disease
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Chronic diarrhea.
