Acidosis is a condition in which there is excessive acid in the
body fluids. It is the opposite of alkalosis (a condition in
which there is excessive base in the body fluids). Causes,
incidence, and risk factors: The kidneys and lungs maintain the
balance (proper pH level) of chemicals called acids and bases in
the body. Acidosis occurs when acid builds up or when
bicarbonate (a base) is lost. Acidosis is classified as either
respiratory acidosis or metabolic acidosis . Respiratory
acidosis develops when there is too much carbon dioxide (an
acid) in the body. This type of acidosis is usually caused by a
decreased ability to remove carbon dioxide from the body through
effective breathing. Other names for respiratory acidosis are
hypercapnic acidosis and carbon dioxide acidosis. Causes of
respiratory acidosis include: - Chest deformities, such as
kyphosis - Chest injuries - Chest muscle weakness - Chronic lung
disease - Overuse of sedative drugs Metabolic acidosis develops
when too much acid is produced or when