Final answer:
Acidosis refers to a lower-than-normal blood pH (acidic), while alkalosis indicates a higher-than-normal blood pH (alkaline). They can be classified as metabolic or respiratory based on the underlying cause. Body compensatory mechanisms attempt to normalize pH during these conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acidosis is a condition where the blood pH is below the normal range (< 7.35), indicating excessive acidity. Alkalosis, on the other hand, is when the blood pH exceeds the normal range (> 7.45), reflecting excessive alkalinity. These conditions can be either metabolic or respiratory, depending on whether the imbalance is due to issues with bicarbonate levels or carbonic acid and CO2 levels respectively.
Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an excess of carbonic acid or CO2, making the blood overly acidic. This can result from conditions that impair lung function. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by a deficiency of carbonic acid/CO2, leading to overly alkaline blood. It can be triggered by factors such as lung disease, aspirin overdose, or anxiety.
Metabolic acidosis typically arises from kidney disease, whereas metabolic alkalosis can be caused by conditions including vomiting and the use of certain diuretics. Metabolic responses often serve as compensatory mechanisms for respiratory issues, aiming to normalize blood pH.
The body attempts to compensate for these imbalances through various mechanisms. For instance, in respiratory acidosis, the kidneys conserve more bicarbonate and secrete hydrogen ions. In respiratory alkalosis, the kidneys decrease bicarbonate production and reabsorb more hydrogen ions, with limitations posed by potassium exchange processes in the renal cells.
Lab tests such as pH, pCO2, and HCO3- levels are used to diagnose acidosis and alkalosis and determine whether compensation has occurred.