What is the primary cause of metabolic alkalosis in patients with severe vomiting?

A Loss of hydrogen ions ✓
B Gain of hydrogen ions
C Loss of bicarbonate ions
D Gain of bicarbonate ions

Explanation

Metabolic alkalosis occurs when the body loses hydrogen ions, often due to severe vomiting, which leads to an increase in blood pH.

Mnemonic

Vomit = Loss of H+

Source

Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Electrolytes and Acid-Base Balance Acid-Base Balance Metabolic Alkalosis Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high