Lactic acidosis physical examination

There are no specific signs to determine lactic acidosis but its cause may be evaluated via thorough examination.

• Look for signs of hypovolemic, cardiogenic, septic or toxic shock.
• To classify the lactic acidosis look for signs of tissue hypoperfusion such as hypotension, tachypnea, confusion, peripheral shutdown (check capillary refill) and oliguria.
• Look for evidence of a septic focus and hyperthermia (hypothermia in advanced sepsis).
• Kussmaul’s breathing may occur in cases of severe acidosis being compensated by respiratory effort.

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