Acid-Base Balance

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to acid-base balance, disorders, symptoms, and treatments as outlined in the lecture.

Acid-Base Balance

The mechanisms and processes that maintain the body's pH within a narrow range for optimal physiological function.

Acidosis

A condition characterized by an excess of acid in the body fluids, leading to a lower pH. (normal—7.35-7.45)

Alkalosis

A condition characterized by an excess of base in the body fluids, leading to a higher pH. (normal—7.35-7.45)

pH Scale

A scale used to determine acidity or alkalinity, ranging from 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline) with 7 being neutral.

Chemical Buffer System

A system that helps maintain pH balance in the body by neutralizing excess acids or bases.

Respiratory Regulation

The process by which the respiratory system controls the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood to help regulate acid-base balance.

Metabolic Acidosis

A condition where there is an increase in acid or a decrease in bicarbonate in the body, leading to a low pH.

Respiratory Acidosis

A condition that occurs when the lungs cannot remove enough carbon dioxide, resulting in an increase in blood acidity.

Aldosterone

A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that promotes sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, affecting fluid balance.

Renin-Angiotensin System

A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.

Symptoms of Acidosis

Include headache, sleepiness, confusion, and respiratory distress.

Symptoms of Alkalosis

Include confusion, light-headedness, and muscle spasms.

Laboratory Values Normal Ranges

pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mmHg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L.

ROME Mnemonic

A mnemonic used in acid-base balance: R for Respiratory, O for Opposite, M for Metabolic, E for Equal.

Treatment of Acid-Base Imbalances

Involves treating the underlying cause of the imbalance.