Lactic acid is a natural byproduct of the body’s energy production process known as anaerobic glycolysis. This chemical compound is produced when the body converts glucose into energy in the absence of oxygen.

Lactic acid is a normal byproduct of exercise and muscle movement. However, high levels of lactic acid in the body can lead to a condition called lactic acidosis. This condition occurs when lactic acid accumulates faster than it can be metabolized by the liver.

What Causes High Lactic Acid Levels in the Body?

High levels of lactic acid in the body can be caused by several factors, including:.

1. Intense Exercise

When you exercise, your body produces energy by breaking down glucose. In the absence of oxygen, the body produces lactic acid to fuel the cells. The lactic acid is then processed by the liver and other organs to produce energy.

In general, moderate exercise does not cause high levels of lactic acid to accumulate in the body. However, high-intensity exercise, such as sprinting or weightlifting, can cause lactic acid to build up rapidly.

2. Medical Conditions

Medical conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, and cancer can also cause high levels of lactic acid in the body.

These conditions can affect the way the body produces and metabolizes glucose, leading to an accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream.

3. Medications

Certain medications, such as metformin, can also cause high levels of lactic acid in the body. This is because these medications can affect the way the body produces and metabolizes glucose, leading to an accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream.

What Are the Symptoms of Lactic Acidosis?

High levels of lactic acid in the body can cause a range of symptoms, including:.

1. Nausea and Vomiting

Excess lactic acid in the bloodstream can cause nausea and vomiting. This is because the acid can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to feelings of nausea and the urge to vomit.

2. Weakness and Fatigue

High levels of lactic acid can also cause weakness and fatigue. This is because the acid interferes with the body’s energy production process, making it more difficult for cells to produce energy.

3. Rapid Breathing

Lactic acidosis can also cause rapid breathing. This is because the body tries to compensate for the excess acid by breathing faster, which helps to eliminate carbon dioxide and regulate the body’s pH levels.

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4. Abdominal Pain

High levels of lactic acid in the body can also cause abdominal pain. This is because the acid can irritate the lining of the digestive system, leading to feelings of pain and discomfort.

5. Irregular Heartbeat

Lactic acidosis can also cause an irregular heartbeat. This is because the acid can interfere with the electrical signals that regulate the heart’s rhythm, leading to palpitations and other irregularities.

How to Control High Lactic Acid Levels in the Body?

Controlling high levels of lactic acid in the body involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some ways to control high lactic acid levels in the body:.

1. Exercise in Moderation

When exercising, it is important to avoid overexertion. High-intensity workouts can cause lactic acid to build up rapidly in the body, leading to a range of symptoms.

Instead, aim for moderate exercise sessions that gradually increase in intensity over time.

2. Get Enough Rest

Rest is also important when trying to control high lactic acid levels in the body. The body needs time to recover and repair after workouts, so make sure to get enough rest between exercise sessions.

3. Treat Underlying Medical Conditions

If you have an underlying medical condition that is causing high levels of lactic acid in the body, it is important to treat the condition. This may involve medications, lifestyle changes, or other interventions.

4. Avoid Certain Medications

If you are taking a medication that can cause high levels of lactic acid in the body, talk to your doctor about alternative options.

There may be other medications that can achieve the same results without causing high levels of lactic acid in the bloodstream.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can also help to control high lactic acid levels in the body. This is because fluids can help to flush excess acid from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of lactic acidosis.

Conclusion

Lactic acid is a natural byproduct of the body’s energy production process. While moderate levels of lactic acid are normal, high levels of lactic acid in the body can be the sign of an underlying medical condition or overexertion.

If you are experiencing symptoms of lactic acidosis, it is important to speak to your doctor about the underlying cause of the condition and ways to control high lactic acid levels in the body.