Guide To Lactic Acidosis Symptoms

Jaundice

Jaundice occurs when the liver cannot break down bilirubin. It is not a disease, but a symptom of underlying conditions, and it is often a sign of lactic acidosis. Patients with jaundice have yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Patients may also notice their urine is dark and their bowel movements are light and chalky. In lactic acidosis, a main underlying cause is the improper function of the liver or kidneys to filter lactate from the body, so it makes sense for them to also have this symptom. As lactic acid is removed from the body via medical intervention or naturally, the skin will return to its normal color.

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Rapid Heart Rate

A normal resting heart rate for adults is between sixty and one hundred beats per minute. A rapid heart rate, or tachycardia, is anything above one hundred beats per minute. It is normal for the heart rate to rise during exercise or activity, but it can be a symptom of lactic acidosis when the patient is at rest. It is also tied to rapid breathing because increased breathing will also increase the heart rate. Some patients will not experience any symptoms from a rapid heart rate, but others will experience pressure or tightness in the chest, pain, fatigue, and even fainting. In extreme cases, tachycardia can lead to a heart attack or unconsciousness.

Read more about the major symptoms of lactic acidosis now.