Causes of respiratory alkalosis in pregnant women

Respiratory acidosis. When respiratory function is impaired and CO2 cannot be adequately eliminated, respiratory acidosis may occur, characterized primarily by elevated plasma partial pressure of CO2 and a secondary increase in HCO3- due to renal compensation. It can result from central respiratory failure, airway obstruction, pulmonary diseases, respiratory muscle paralysis, or improper ventilator management. Respiratory acidosis itself lacks specific clinical manifestations; it may sometimes cause vasodilation, facial flushing, and headache, and in severe cases, may lead to coma and ventricular fibrillation.