Questions: Acidosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood falls below the healthy range, and alkalosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood rises above the healthy range. Apply your knowledge of the acid-base balance within the body to predict which body system(s) would be malfunctioning to result in either acidosis or alkalosis?

Acidosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood falls below the healthy range, and alkalosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood rises above the healthy range. Apply your knowledge of the acid-base balance within the body to predict which body system(s) would be malfunctioning to result in either acidosis or alkalosis?
Transcript text: Acidosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood falls below the healthy range, and alkalosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood rises above the healthy range. Apply your knowledge of the acid-base balance within the body to predict which body system(s) would be malfunctioning to result in either acidosis or alkalosis?
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To predict which body systems might be malfunctioning to result in either acidosis or alkalosis, we need to consider the primary systems responsible for maintaining acid-base balance in the body: the respiratory system and the renal (kidney) system.

  1. Respiratory System:

    • Acidosis (Respiratory Acidosis): This can occur if the respiratory system is not effectively removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body. CO2 is a byproduct of metabolism and is acidic when dissolved in blood. Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or hypoventilation can lead to an accumulation of CO2, resulting in respiratory acidosis.
    • Alkalosis (Respiratory Alkalosis): This can occur if there is excessive removal of CO2 from the body, often due to hyperventilation. This can be caused by anxiety, fever, or high altitude, leading to a decrease in CO2 levels and an increase in blood pH.
  2. Renal System:

    • Acidosis (Metabolic Acidosis): This can occur if the kidneys are unable to excrete enough acid or if they are losing too much bicarbonate (HCO3-), which is a base. Conditions such as renal failure, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe diarrhea can lead to metabolic acidosis.
    • Alkalosis (Metabolic Alkalosis): This can occur if there is an excessive loss of acid or an increase in bicarbonate. Causes can include prolonged vomiting, diuretic use, or excessive intake of antacids, leading to metabolic alkalosis.

In summary, acidosis or alkalosis can result from malfunctions in either the respiratory system or the renal system. Respiratory acidosis and alkalosis are related to the management of CO2 by the lungs, while metabolic acidosis and alkalosis are related to the management of acids and bases by the kidneys.

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