An increase in blood CO2 levels is followed by an increase in H+ ions and a decrease in blood pH.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a waste product that is produced during cellular respiration. It is transported in the blood in three ways: dissolved in plasma, bound to hemoglobin, and as carbonic acid. When CO2 dissolves in plasma, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid (H2CO3). This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. Carbonic acid can then dissociate into a hydrogen ion (H+) and a bicarbonate ion (HCO3-).
The increase in H+ ions in the blood causes the pH to decrease. A decrease in pH indicates that the blood is becoming more acidic. This can lead to a number of problems, including impaired brain function, respiratory distress, and heart arrhythmias.
The body has a number of mechanisms to compensate for an increase in blood CO2 levels. One mechanism is to increase the respiratory rate. This helps to remove CO2 from the blood and prevent the pH from decreasing too much. Another mechanism is to increase the production of bicarbonate ions by the kidneys. This helps to buffer the excess H+ ions and prevent the pH from decreasing too much.
If the body is unable to compensate for an increase in blood CO2 levels, a condition known as respiratory acidosis can develop. Respiratory acidosis is a serious condition that can be life-threatening.