Skip to main content
Your session has expired. Reloading...

Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Minerals

Bicarbonate blood test: what a low bicarb result may mean

Bicarbonate is key to maintaining acid-base balance, which supports muscle function and metabolic efficiency. Keeping your pH in check helps maintain peak physical performance.

What It Measures

This test measures the level of bicarbonate (CO2) in your blood. It reflects your body's ability to regulate acid-base balance and is often included in a basic metabolic panel.

Why It Matters

Balanced bicarbonate levels help maintain a stable blood pH. A bicarbonate blood test can give insight into how your body manages acids. A low result may be associated with health problems such as chronic kidney disease or metabolic acidosis, while a high result may relate to other conditions. Other electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and chloride, and the kidney markers creatinine and eGFR, give a fuller picture together. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider for interpretation.

When to Test

A bicarbonate blood test is often included in a basic metabolic panel. Some people also choose to check it if they notice symptoms such as prolonged vomiting, difficulty breathing, or unexplained fatigue.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Symptoms of low bicarbonate may include rapid breathing, fatigue, confusion, and headache. This condition, known as metabolic acidosis, requires medical attention.

High Levels

High bicarbonate levels may cause muscle twitching, hand tremors, nausea, and confusion. This may be associated with metabolic alkalosis and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Tips

Staying well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can support general metabolic health. Some people find that a mix of plant based proteins alongside other foods suits them. If you have kidney conditions or take medications that affect electrolyte balance, your healthcare provider can advise on monitoring bicarbonate levels. Every blood test result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes low bicarbonate levels?
Low levels may be caused by kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe diarrhoea, or certain medications. Your healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause.
Is bicarbonate the same as baking soda?
Sodium bicarbonate is the chemical name for baking soda. However, blood bicarbonate levels reflect your body's acid-base balance and are different from dietary sodium bicarbonate intake.
How is bicarbonate related to kidney function?
The kidneys play a major role in regulating bicarbonate levels. Abnormal levels may indicate kidney function changes. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.