When treating metabolic acidosis caused by impaired kidney excretion, what substance is often prescribed for long-term management?
Answer
Oral alkali supplements, typically sodium bicarbonate
The strategy for correcting metabolic acidosis focuses on resolving the root cause. In cases where the kidneys are damaged (kidney failure) and cannot perform their function of adequately excreting fixed acids or regenerating necessary bicarbonate stores, the long-term management requires replacing the missing base. Physicians often prescribe oral alkali supplements, most commonly sodium bicarbonate, to directly replenish the body's primary chemical buffer that the diseased kidneys are failing to conserve. This replacement therapy helps to slowly normalize the acid-base balance while the underlying kidney disease is managed concurrently.
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