What potential hazard can arise from the use of Sodium Bicarbonate?

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The use of Sodium Bicarbonate can lead to metabolic alkalosis, which is an increase in the alkalinity of the blood. This medication is often used to neutralize excess acid in conditions such as metabolic acidosis or certain types of acute renal failure. However, when Sodium Bicarbonate is administered, it can contribute to a surplus of bicarbonate ions in the bloodstream.

When this occurs, it can result in an imbalance in the body's acid-base homeostasis, leading to metabolic alkalosis. This condition is characterized by elevated blood pH and can result in symptoms such as muscle twitching, hand tremors, and spasm of the muscles. In severe cases, metabolic alkalosis can interfere with normal physiological processes and lead to complications affecting the heart and respiratory systems.

While other choices may present potential risks under different circumstances or medications, they are not direct and common hazards associated with the use of Sodium Bicarbonate. For instance, acute pulmonary edema is generally related to fluid overload or heart failure, renal failure can be due to various other factors, and cardiac arrest is typically a result of serious arrhythmias or severe myocardial oxygen deprivation rather than a direct consequence of Sodium Bicarbonate use.

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