Lactic acidosis is a build up of lactic acid in the body's tissues due to the use of muscles and other energy using tissue where the tissues do not obtain enough oxygen from the bloodstream. Although it is normal during extreme physical extertion (like sprinting), in a patient at rest, it is usually a symptom of a serious underlying disorder such as severe problems with the heart or lungs, sepsis, severe physical trauma and severe depletion of bodily fluids. It can also be caused by several genetic conditions and pharmaceuticals.
The condition can induce nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness and rapid breathing.