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shredder666
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mechanism for compensatory RESPIRATORY acidosis caused by metabolic alkalosis?
I don't get it... someone please explain :(
I don't get it... someone please explain :(
fedaykin said:It's mostly from slowed respiratory rate. Chemoreceptors lining the blood vessels, especially the carotid bodies detect blood CO2 levels. The decreased partial pressure of CO2 will cause these bodies to send less stimulatory signals to the respiratory center in the medulla which leads to decreased respiration rate and retention of more CO2 (which becomes carbonic acid in the blood). **edit, the carotid bodies detect H+ concentration, not CO2 partial pressure directly.
Take this with a grain of salt as I'm only an undergrad who's read Guyton & Halls Physiology text a few times.
The mechanism for compensatory respiratory acidosis caused by metabolic alkalosis involves the body's attempt to restore acid-base balance. To compensate for the increased alkalinity in the blood caused by metabolic alkalosis, the respiratory system increases the rate and depth of breathing, resulting in the elimination of excess carbon dioxide (CO2) through the lungs. This decrease in CO2 leads to a decrease in blood pH, thus compensating for the alkalosis.
Metabolic alkalosis occurs when there is an excess of bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood. This can be caused by factors such as excessive vomiting or use of certain medications. The excess bicarbonate causes an increase in blood pH, leading to alkalosis. To compensate, the respiratory system increases breathing to eliminate CO2, which results in a decrease in blood pH and the development of respiratory acidosis.
The symptoms of respiratory acidosis caused by metabolic alkalosis may include shortness of breath, rapid breathing, confusion, dizziness, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can also lead to coma or death. These symptoms are a result of the body's attempt to compensate for the imbalanced acid-base levels and maintain homeostasis.
To diagnose respiratory acidosis caused by metabolic alkalosis, a blood gas analysis is typically performed. This test measures the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH in the blood. In cases of respiratory acidosis caused by metabolic alkalosis, the blood pH will be low, while the CO2 levels will be decreased due to compensation by the respiratory system.
The treatment for respiratory acidosis caused by metabolic alkalosis involves addressing the underlying cause of the metabolic alkalosis. This may include correcting electrolyte imbalances, treating underlying medical conditions, or adjusting medication dosages. In severe cases, respiratory support may be necessary to help the body eliminate excess CO2 and restore acid-base balance.