Acid-base balance refers to the balance between alkalinity and acidity in the blood, as measured on the pH scale. The kidneys and lungs, along with buffer systems are responsible for maintaining the acid-base balance. This article will provide an insight into clinical implications of loss in acid-base balance. The factors that control the acidity and alkalinity of the body are as follows: The kidneys excrete excess acids and bases. Kidney damage may reduce the ability of the kidneys to excrete these substances, leading to a disturbance in acid-base balance.
The lungs control pH levels by excreting carbon dioxide. When a person exhales, the diaphragm pushes carbon dioxide out of the body. The pH of the blood changes when the depth and speed of breathing change, making it possible to adjust blood pH in less than a minute. Buffer systems prevent sudden changes in acidity and alkalinity.…
