Lactic acidosis

 Lactic acidosis is a type of metabolic acidosis that occurs when lactic acids build up in your blood.

Your body produces more lactate when your tissues are deprived of oxygen. 

Lactate can also build up if your livers and kidneys aren't able to metabolize it efficiently. Jun 13, 2023

What causes your lactic acid to be high?

Lactic acidosis occurs when lactic acid production exceeds lactic acid clearance. 

The increase in lactate production is usually caused by impaired tissue oxygenation, either from decreased oxygen delivery or a defect in mitochondrial oxygen utilization.

Be careful - lactate can be elevated by unrelated conditions. 

Even though lactate produced in the presence of sepsis may not necessarily be the result of widespread hypoperfusion,

 lactate can be an indicator that anaerobic metabolism is taking place. Therefore, lactate is sensitive to sepsis but not specific to sepsis.

Finally, stopping exercise and allowing lactate to clear is the surefire way to get rid of excess lactate. 

Your body naturally gets rid of lactic acid through metabolism. 

Taking deep breaths, staying hydrated, and reducing exercise intensity are the best ways to maximize natural lactate clearance.Jan 31, 2022

Normal lactate levels

Lactic acidosis is among the most common concerns for those caring for critically ill patients.

High levels of lactate are associated with increased risk of death independent of organ failure and shock.

 Normal lactate levels are less than two mmol/L, with hyperlactatemia defined as lactate levels between 2 mmol/L and 4 mmol/L. Severe levels of lactate are 4 mmol/L or higher.Jul 17, 2023