alkalosis

an abnormal rise in the alkalinity (a decrease in pH) of the blood and body fluids because of a failure or swamping of the mechanisms that regulate the acid-base balance in the body. It may arise through acid loss following prolonged vomiting or occur in a patient who has been treated for a gastric ulcer with a large amount of alkalis. Respiratory alkalosis may arise if breathing is too deep for the amount of physical exertion being undertaken. The symptoms of alkalosis include muscular cramps and fatigue.