Which symptom is NOT a cause of metabolic acidosis?

Hyperventilation is not a cause of metabolic acidosis. Instead, it typically indicates a respiratory response to an acid-base disturbance, often resulting in a state of respiratory alkalosis, where the body expels too much carbon dioxide, shifting the pH balance.

In contrast, metabolic acidosis arises from conditions that either produce an excess of acid or lead to a loss of bicarbonate in the body. Severe diarrhea is a common cause as it can lead to the loss of bicarbonate via loss of intestinal fluids. Starvation produces ketones, which are acidic and can accumulate in the body, contributing to acidosis. Diabetes mellitus can lead to ketoacidosis when insulin levels are insufficient, resulting in increased ketone production as the body begins to metabolize fat for energy.

Therefore, hyperventilation, as an increased respiratory rate, does not contribute to metabolic acidosis, highlighting why it is the correct option in this context.