Buffer System:
Respiratory induced acid-base imbalance: Hyperventilation (anxiety/panic attacks) causes an excess of CO2 to leave the body resulting in Respiratory Alkalosis. Hypoventilation (COPD, Medication) accumulates CO2 in the body and results in Respiratory Acidosis. CO2 is main respiratory stimulus because the accumulation or depletion of this gas shifts the carbonic acid/bicarbonate buffer system in the body.
Metabolic induced acid-base imbalance: Renal Failure impaires proton excretion leaving the body in an acidotic state. Type I Diabetes also leads to an accumulation of ketones from fatty-acid catabolism (d/t inadequate glucose source) and decreases the systemic pH resulting in metabolic acidosis. During emesis, protons are lost from the hydrochloric acid dense gastric juices. The excess loss of protons results in an increase of the body pH and thus Metabolic Alkalosis.
These concepts are important to understand in order to properly administer IVF’s and for implementing proper diet care plans for patients with chronic illnesses.
Health Science 