Question

A patient experiencing respiratory acidosis may present with which of the following symptoms? (Select all that apply.)

A) Anxiety
B) Muscle cramps
C) Tingling sensations
D) Seizures
E) Delirium

Answer 1

A patient with respiratory acidosis may exhibit symptoms such as anxiety, muscle cramps, tingling sensations, and severe cases can lead to seizures and delirium due to the accumulation of CO2 leading to a decrease in blood pH.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient experiencing respiratory acidosis may present with a variety of symptoms due to the primary issue of excess carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream leading to decreased pH. Common manifestations include anxiety, confusion, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures prior to death. Excessive CO2 can also lead to neurological symptoms such as muscle cramps, tingling sensations, and delirium due to the pH imbalance affecting nerve function. This condition can stem from respiratory problems such as emphysema where there is insufficient gas exchange in the lungs.