In respiratory alkalosis, what is the typical compensatory change?

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Multiple Choice

In respiratory alkalosis, what is the typical compensatory change?

Explanation:
When CO2 is low from hyperventilation, the body tries to bring pH back toward normal by metabolic compensation. The kidneys respond by excreting more bicarbonate and reducing bicarbonate reabsorption, which lowers the serum HCO3-. This drop in bicarbonate helps offset the alkalemia caused by the low CO2. So, the typical compensatory change is a decrease in bicarbonate (low HCO3-). Note this renal compensation develops over hours to days.

When CO2 is low from hyperventilation, the body tries to bring pH back toward normal by metabolic compensation. The kidneys respond by excreting more bicarbonate and reducing bicarbonate reabsorption, which lowers the serum HCO3-. This drop in bicarbonate helps offset the alkalemia caused by the low CO2. So, the typical compensatory change is a decrease in bicarbonate (low HCO3-). Note this renal compensation develops over hours to days.

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