What is the Bicarbonate Test?
Bicarbonate is a negatively charged ion that is produced primarily by the kidneys and lungs for the regulation of the levels of pH. Bicarbonate is a vital component of the buffering system i.e. the maintenance of acid-base balance of the body by working with carbon dioxide and water. It ensures that the pH levels are maintained at 7.35 to 7.45 for proper metabolic functioning. If the bicarbonate levels are disrupted the homeostasis of the body is greatly affected.
The bicarbonate test is conducted to measure the levels of bicarbonate in the blood. The imbalance of bicarbonate is a medical emergency and needs immediate medical attention.
How is the Test Performed?
The Bicarbonate is a straightforward blood test and is part of a routine metabolic or electrolyte panel.
Preparation
- No special preparation is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about the medications you are taking as some might interfere with the test results.
- Stay hydrated so that the blood can be drawn easily.
Collection
- A certified phlebotomist draws blood from the vein, typically from the arm after cleaning the area with an alcoholic pad.
- A needle is used to draw blood and then the sample is placed in the tube to send to the laboratory.
Lab Analysis
Once the laboratory receives the sample, the sample analysis is done using an automated analyzer to measure the levels of bicarbonate in the blood sample.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
A bicarbonate test is recommended by the healthcare provider to people exhibiting symptoms of acid-base imbalance or people affected with conditions including respiratory issues, kidney diseases, or metabolic disorders as they lead to abnormal bicarbonate levels. The following symptoms are generally seen in the affected individuals;
Symptoms
- Rapid breathing
- Hyperventilation
- Severe headache
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Appetite loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Water retention or dehydration
- Feeling sleepy
- Abnormal rhythms of the heart
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
Bicarbonate test usually varies according to the age, sex, diet, and overall general health of an individual. The generally accepted reference range is given below;
Adults – 22 to 29 mill equivalents per liter (mEq/L) or mill moles per liter (mmol/L)
**The normal reference range varies between the laboratories due to the methodology or protocol used or the equipment used in the laboratory. For an accurate interpretation of the results, you must consult the healthcare provider as he will interpret the results based on your health condition.
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
Abnormal levels of bicarbonate are an indication that the person is suffering from an underlying condition and should seek immediate medical attention as if left untreated could cause severe complications. The following are the possibilities in either case;
Elevated Levels of Bicarbonate (Metabolic Alkalosis)
An elevated level of the bicarbonate is referred to as metabolic alkalosis i.e. the blood becomes too alkaline and can occur due to the following conditions
- Chronic vomiting
- Cushing’s syndrome
Low Levels of Bicarbonate (Metabolic Acidosis)
A lowered bicarbonate level is referred to as metabolic acidosis i.e. the blood becomes too acidic and can occur due to the following conditions
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis can be present in diabetic patients.
- Acidosis is the accumulation of lactic acid in the blood due to sepsis, shock, or severe infection
- Kidney disease
Additional tests are required for the confirmation of the disease such as kidney function tests, renal blood gases (ABG), or imaging studies.
