Respiratory Alkalosis

• What condition causes respiratory alkalosis?

  Increased ventilation leading to excess CO₂ exhalation
• What happens to CO₂ levels during hyperventilation?

  CO₂ levels decrease, causing hypocapnia
• How does decreased CO₂ affect carbonic acid levels?

  Less CO₂ results in less carbonic acid
• What is the relationship between H⁺ concentration and pH in respiratory alkalosis?

  Decreased H⁺ leads to increased pH
• What compensatory response do the kidneys have in respiratory alkalosis?

  Kidneys excrete HCO₃⁻ to lower pH
• What happens to H⁺ excretion during respiratory alkalosis?

  H⁺ excretion decreases, retaining acid
• What is the key equation related to CO₂ and pH balance?

  • CO₂ + H₂O ↔ H₂CO₃ ↔ H⁺ + HCO₃⁻
  • ↓ CO₂ shifts the equation left
  • Reduces H⁺ and increases pH
• What are common causes of respiratory alkalosis?

  Hyperventilation syndromes, pain, fever, sepsis
• How does high altitude contribute to respiratory alkalosis?

  Low oxygen stimulates faster breathing
• What effect does brainstem injury have on respiration?

  It overstimulates the respiratory center
• What lab findings are indicative of respiratory alkalosis?

  Increased pH and decreased CO₂
• What is the PaCO₂ level in respiratory alkalosis?

  PaCO₂ is less than 35 mmHg
• What happens to HCO₃⁻ levels if the kidneys compensate for respiratory alkalosis?

  HCO₃⁻ levels decrease
• What are the treatment options for respiratory alkalosis?

  • Treat underlying cause (pain relief, anxiety management)
  • Oxygen therapy for hypoxia
  • Rebreathing techniques (e.g., paper bag)
  • Monitor electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia, hypocalcemia)