Blood pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of your blood. A normal blood pH range is between 7.35 to 7.45, with an average of 7.40. This means that blood is slightly alkaline or basic. Maintaining a stable blood pH is crucial for many biological processes, including oxygenation. The body has complex mechanisms to regulate blood pH, ensuring it stays within this narrow range. If blood pH falls outside this range, it can indicate various medical conditions.
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pH Scale: The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidity, while values above 7 indicate alkalinity.
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Regulation: The body maintains blood pH through various mechanisms, such as the respiratory system, kidneys, and buffers. For example, the lungs expel carbon dioxide, which is acidic, helping to regulate blood pH. The kidneys also play a role in regulating the pH of blood by excreting acids and reabsorbing bicarbonate, a base.
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Importance: Maintaining blood pH within the normal range is critical for the proper functioning of enzymes, proteins, and other biological processes.
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Testing: Blood pH is often measured through an arterial blood gas (ABG) test. This test measures the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, along with blood pH.
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Conditions: Conditions that can affect blood pH include metabolic acidosis, metabolic alkalosis, respiratory acidosis, and respiratory alkalosis.
