From the Guidelines
The deep, rapid breathing pattern observed in lactic acidosis is called Kussmaul breathing. This distinctive respiratory pattern is characterized by deep, labored breathing with increased respiratory rate and tidal volume, often described as "air hunger." Kussmaul breathing is the body's compensatory mechanism to eliminate excess carbon dioxide and increase blood pH in response to metabolic acidosis, including lactic acidosis. When lactic acid accumulates in the bloodstream due to conditions like shock, severe infection, or tissue hypoxia, it releases hydrogen ions that lower blood pH, as seen in cases of metabolic acidosis discussed in the BTS guideline for oxygen use in adults in healthcare and emergency settings 1. The respiratory center in the brain stem detects this acidosis and triggers Kussmaul breathing to blow off carbon dioxide, thereby reducing carbonic acid levels in the blood and partially compensating for the metabolic acidosis. Some key points to consider about Kussmaul breathing include:
- It is a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis
- It is characterized by deep and rapid breathing
- It can be an important clinical sign for recognizing severe acidosis
- It indicates the need for urgent intervention to address the underlying cause of lactic acid accumulation, such as tissue hypoxia or sepsis, as mentioned in the context of metabolic acidosis in the BTS guideline 1. Overall, Kussmaul breathing is a critical clinical sign that healthcare providers should recognize and respond to promptly in order to address the underlying causes of lactic acidosis and prevent further morbidity and mortality.
From the Research
Lactic Acidosis and Breathing Patterns
- The provided studies do not directly mention the name of the deep rapid breathing pattern in lactic acidosis.
- However, it is known that patients with lactic acidosis often exhibit Kussmaul breathing, which is a deep and rapid breathing pattern 2, 3.
- Kussmaul breathing is a compensatory mechanism to help blow off excess carbon dioxide and reduce acidosis.
- The studies focus on the treatment and management of lactic acidosis, including the use of sodium bicarbonate, dichloroacetate, and other therapies 3, 4, 5.
- None of the studies provide a direct answer to the question about the specific name of the deep rapid breathing pattern in lactic acidosis.