How to manage respiratory alkalosis

Respiratory alkalosis can be managed with oxygen therapy and by increasing arterial blood CO₂ levels. If a patient exhibits significant impairment in normal breathing, inhalation of oxygen mixed with CO₂ may be used to improve the condition, which is not harmful to the body. Some individuals may experience mental tension or excitability after developing alkalosis; in such cases, a large paper bag can be used—placed over the mouth and nose—to allow rebreathing, thereby increasing arterial PCO₂, stimulating the respiratory center, and helping restore normal breathing.