Which condition is characterized by a pH below normal range and increased PCO2 levels?

Which condition is characterized by a pH below normal range and increased PCO2 levels?

• A. Respiratory alkalosis
• B. Metabolic acidosis
• C. Respiratory acidosis
• D. Metabolic alkalosis

Answer: (C)

The condition characterized by a pH below the normal range and increased PCO2 levels is respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, the lungs fail to remove enough carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body, leading to a buildup of CO2 in the blood. This increased CO2 results in higher levels of carbonic acid, subsequently lowering the pH of the blood, indicating acidity. In a healthy respiratory system, CO2 is expelled efficiently through breathing, helping maintain normal pH levels. However, in cases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe asthma exacerbations, or respiratory failure, there is an impaired gas exchange leading to increased levels of carbon dioxide and consequently, acidosis. Understanding the interplay between acid-base balance and respiratory function is crucial in recognizing and diagnosing respiratory acidosis. The normal range for blood pH is typically between 7.35 and 7.45. When CO2 levels rise, pH decreases, indicating an acidotic state that is specific to respiratory issues when considering the increased PCO2.

The condition characterized by a pH below the normal range and increased PCO2 levels is respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, the lungs fail to remove enough carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body, leading to a buildup of CO2 in the blood. This increased CO2 results in higher levels of carbonic acid, subsequently lowering the pH of the blood, indicating acidity.

In a healthy respiratory system, CO2 is expelled efficiently through breathing, helping maintain normal pH levels. However, in cases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe asthma exacerbations, or respiratory failure, there is an impaired gas exchange leading to increased levels of carbon dioxide and consequently, acidosis.

Understanding the interplay between acid-base balance and respiratory function is crucial in recognizing and diagnosing respiratory acidosis. The normal range for blood pH is typically between 7.35 and 7.45. When CO2 levels rise, pH decreases, indicating an acidotic state that is specific to respiratory issues when considering the increased PCO2.