Final answer:
The hazards of bicarb therapy include metabolic alkalosis and potentially respiratory acidosis, arising from the body's efforts to compensate for pH imbalances caused by excess bicarbonate. Loss of stomach acids, excessive antacid use, Cushing's disease, and the effects of certain medications can all contribute to these conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hazards of bicarb therapy involve disruptions to the body's acid-base balance. Metabolic alkalosis is a primary concern and can occur if there is an excess of bicarbonate in the blood.
This condition can originate from overconsumption of substances like bicarbonate, citrate, or antacids for stomach acid reflux, or be a consequence of medical conditions such as Cushing's disease, where chronic hypersecretion of ACTH leads to elevated aldosterone levels and subsequent potassium loss.
Additionally, other causes include loss of stomach acids through vomiting, diuretic-induced potassium depletion, and excessive laxative use.
In the context of bicarb (bicarbonate) therapy, potential hazards also include respiratory acidosis where, initially, bicarbonate levels may be normal but may increase if the body tries to compensate for excess CO2.
A key understanding is the delicate balance needed in the bicarbonate buffer system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the pH of the blood; thus, any imbalance caused by extraneous factors or underlying conditions might lead to severe health implications.