What if my anion gap is low

Hypoalbuminemia means you have less albumin protein than normal. If you have this condition, your expected normal result must be lower.

The test requires a blood sample, which is drawn through a needle from a vein in your arm. Taking a blood sample with a needle carries risks that include bleeding, infection, bruising, or feeling dizzy. When the needle pricks your arm, you may feel a slight stinging sensation or pain. Afterward, the site may be slightly sore. Being dehydrated or retaining water in your body can affect your results. Antibiotics such as penicillin can also affect your results. You don't need to prepare for this test.

But be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illicit drugs you may use. Search Encyclopedia. Anion Gap Blood Does this test have other names? Serum anion gap What is this test? Metabolic acidosis may be caused when: Your body makes too much acid. Why do I need this test? Signs and symptoms include: Fatigue Shortness of breath Nausea and vomiting Rapid heart rate Low blood pressure What other tests might I have along with this test?

Possible tests include: pH levels in blood or urine Dissolved gases in the blood such as carbon dioxide Lactate and glucose and ketones Creatinine Blood urea nitrogen, or BUN If you may have swallowed a poison, such as wood alcohol, salicylate in aspirin , and ethylene glycol in antifreeze , your provider may test your blood for it.

You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes. You don't need any special preparations for an anion gap blood test. If your health care provider has also ordered other blood tests, you may need to fast not eat or drink for several hours before the test.

Your health care provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow. There is very little risk to having this test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

If your results show a high anion gap, you may have acidosis, which means higher than normal levels of acid in the blood. Acidosis may be a sign of dehydration , diarrhea , or too much exercise. It may also indicate a more serious condition such as kidney disease or diabetes. If your results show a low anion gap, it may mean you have a low level of albumin, a protein in the blood. Low albumin may indicate kidney problems, heart disease, or some types of cancer. Since low anion gap results are uncommon, retesting is often done to ensure the results are accurate.

Talk to your health care provider to learn what your results mean. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. The anion gap blood test can provide important information about the acid and base balance in your blood. But there are a wide range of normal results, so your health care provider may recommend additional testing to make a diagnosis. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice.

Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. In this case, a person will require a repeat blood test. High anion gaps are often associated with serious conditions, such as lung disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, and drug overdose. These conditions need prompt treatment to prevent severe complications, including death.

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Low anion gap: Causes, test, and treatment. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Causes of a low anion gap Causes of a high anion gap Symptoms Treatment Takeaway An anion gap is calculated by using the results of an electrolyte blood test.