Definition
Kidney tubules fail to maintain acid-base balance, sometimes with potassium abnormalities.
Symptoms
Fatigue, weakness, stones or childhood growth problems depending on type.
How it may be discovered
Low bicarbonate, electrolyte abnormalities or recurrent stones.
When to seek care
Severe weakness, palpitations or faintness requires urgent assessment.
Investigations and tests
Electrolytes, bicarbonate, kidney function and selected urine measurements.
Reaching a diagnosis
Distinguish types and investigate medication, autoimmune or genetic causes.
Treatment options
Individual correction of acidosis and potassium, cause-specific treatment and monitoring; no unsupervised supplements.
These kidney guides are educational. Medical kidney disease may require coordinated care with a nephrologist.
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