How does the body compensate for metabolic acidosis?

• A. Decreasing respiratory rate
• B. Increasing respiratory rate
• C. Excreting more carbon dioxide
• D. Retaining hydrogen ions

Answer: (B)

In metabolic acidosis, the body experiences a decrease in blood pH due to an accumulation of acids or a loss of bicarbonate. To counteract this decrease in pH, one of the primary compensatory mechanisms involves the respiratory system. Increasing the respiratory rate allows for more carbon dioxide (CO2) to be exhaled. Since CO2 is in equilibrium with carbonic acid in the blood, reducing the level of carbon dioxide decreases the acidity of the blood.

By breathing more rapidly and deeply, the body effectively reduces the concentration of carbonic acid, which helps to raise the blood pH back towards normal levels. This response is part of the body's immediate compensation strategy to help restore acid-base balance, illustrating the close relationship between the respiratory system and metabolic acid-base disturbances.