pH Balance

1. Chemical Buffers

1.1. Fast Acting

1.2. Bicarbonate buffer system

1.2.1. Converts strong acids and bases to weak acids and bases

1.3. Phosphate buffer system

1.3.1. Converts strong acids and bases to weak acids and bases

1.4. Protein buffer system

1.4.1. Exchange of hydrogen ion in acids and bases

2. Physiological Buffers

2.1. Slower acting

2.2. Respiratory Mechanism

2.2.1. CO2 excretion

2.3. Renal Mechanism

2.3.1. Hydrogen ion excretion

3. Unbalanced pH

3.1. High pH

3.1.1. Alkalosis

3.1.1.1. Lightheadedness

3.1.1.2. Dizziness

3.1.1.3. Agitation

3.2. Low pH

3.2.1. Acidosis

3.2.1.1. Depression of CNS function

3.2.1.2. Drowsiness

3.2.1.3. Stupor

3.2.1.4. Cyanosis