Final answer:
Thiazide and loop diuretics can cause metabolic acidosis, which is characterized by an accumulation of acids in the blood, leading to a decrease in blood pH. This metabolic disturbance can have various effects on enzyme activity, cardiac and neuronal membranes, and potassium levels. Patients with chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease are especially impacted.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thiazide and loop diuretics can cause a metabolic disturbance known as metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is an accumulation of acids in the blood, resulting in a decrease in blood pH. This disturbance can be caused by excess acid acting on enzymes, increased excitability of cardiac and neuronal membranes, and promotion of hyperkalemia due to the excess acid. Chronic kidney disease patients who are at risk of cardiovascular disease can be particularly affected by metabolic acidosis.