Respiratory alkalosis and crying

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Specializes in ER,Neurology, Endocrinology, Pulmonology.

This may sound like a strange question, but is it possible for a child to develop a slight degree of resp. alkalosis from long periods of crying (over an hour)? Not strong enough to cause any problems, but to induce lethargy?

I've been trying to find some info, but i couldn't.

TIA

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The answer is yes; prolonged vigorous crying can result in alkalosis in an infant. Same mechanism as hyperventilation, or vent settings that are too high. A crying baby and an alcoholic as the lone survivors of a biological "invasion" because they did not have normal pH levels was the central premise in the book, The Andromeda Strain, Michael Crichton's first novel in 1969. It was recently re-released.

"Alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation that accompanies hysteria, anxiety, or prolonged crying. " http://ull.chemistry.uakron.edu/genobc/summaries/chapter25.html

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Specializes in ER,Neurology, Endocrinology, Pulmonology.

thank you so much for the information. I truly appreciate it!!

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