Electrolyte imbalance is a common symptom of autoimmune disease. This symptom is accompanied by a low anion gap. What causes this condition and should I worry? Let’s examine some of the most common causes. Here are some important facts about this condition and the relationship between the low anion gap and autoimmune disease.
What diseases cause a low anion gap?
A low anion gap can result from several diseases. Many of these conditions start in the kidneys, but in some cases, they may also occur in the lungs. Respiratory acidosis is an acidic condition in the body that occurs when the lungs don’t work properly. It can be caused by injuries to the chest, chronic airway conditions, deformed chest structure, or alcohol use.
Symptoms of low anion gap can include diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive exercise. It can also indicate kidney or heart failure. Low albumin levels are also a cause of a low anion gap. In addition, a low anion gap may also be a symptom of cancer or heart disease.
Should I worry about a low anion gap?
Although a low anion gap can be a warning sign of a potentially serious illness, it is not necessarily a cause for concern. Several conditions can result in an abnormal anion gap, and the diagnosis depends on the underlying cause. A doctor will perform several other tests to confirm a diagnosis.
The anion gap test measures the amount of acid and base in your blood. When it is too high, or too low, it can indicate problems with your acid-base balance. Too little acid in the blood can also be a sign of more serious problems.
The anion gap can also be a sign of acidosis. Acidosis is a disorder characterized by low acid levels in the body. However, it’s rare for a low anion gap to signal a more serious disorder.
What cancers cause a low anion gap?
If you have a low anion gap, you should see a doctor. There are many causes of this condition. Multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, is one example. It affects plasma cells, white blood cells that help fight infection. The cancerous cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells. They also produce abnormal proteins that damage the kidneys and create high levels of positively charged molecules.
The anion gap test helps determine the balance of electrolytes in your blood. It shows if your blood is too basic or acidic. This imbalance is dangerous and requires medical treatment. A low anion gap can also indicate an underlying illness such as metabolic acidosis. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
