Acid-Base Balance Quiz

Acid-Base Balance Purpose

• Maintains optimal pH levels in bodily fluids, crucial for cellular functions and metabolic processes.
• Enables efficient functioning of enzymes and biochemical reactions by stabilizing hydrogen ion concentrations.

Regulatory System

• The renal system primarily regulates acid-base balance through excretion of hydrogen ions and reabsorption of bicarbonate.
• The respiratory system also plays a key role by adjusting carbon dioxide levels, which affects blood pH.

Consequences of Imbalance

• Acid-base imbalances can lead to severe health issues, including acidosis (excess acidity) or alkalosis (excess alkalinity).
• Symptoms may include confusion, fatigue, and disturbances in heart rhythms, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.

Assessment Methods

• Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is a common method used to assess acid-base balance.
• ABG measures pH, carbon dioxide, and bicarbonate levels in the blood to determine the acid-base status.

Excessive Acidity Condition

• Metabolic acidosis can result from excessive acid accumulation in the body due to conditions like kidney failure, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe dehydration.
• This condition can lead to life-threatening complications if not addressed promptly.