Blood isn't actually "acidic" in the way a lemon is. Instead, the term refers to the acidity or alkalinity of your blood, measured by its pH level. A normal blood pH is slightly alkaline, ranging from 7.35 to 7.45. A lower pH indicates a higher acidity, a condition called acidosis, while a higher pH indicates alkalosis (more basic). The body tightly regulates blood pH to maintain this narrow range.
Understanding Blood pH
- pH Scale: The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline (basic).
- Normal Blood pH: Healthy blood is slightly alkaline, with a typical pH around 7.4.
- Acidosis: A blood pH below 7.35 is considered acidosis and indicates excessive acidity in the blood. This can be caused by various factors, including the buildup of lactic acid (as in lactic acidosis), ketoacids (as in diabetic ketoacidosis), or other metabolic issues. Metabolic Acidosis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
- Alkalosis: A blood pH above 7.45 is considered alkalosis, representing an imbalance towards alkalinity.
Measuring Blood Acidity
Blood acidity is determined using an arterial blood gas (ABG) test. This test measures the pH, oxygen, and carbon dioxide levels in a blood sample taken from an artery. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): What It Is, Purpose, Procedure & Levels This provides a comprehensive assessment of the body's acid-base balance.
Causes of Acidosis
Several conditions can lead to acidosis:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A serious complication of diabetes where the body produces high levels of ketones, which are acidic. Diabetic ketoacidosis - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic
- Lactic Acidosis: Occurs when there is a buildup of lactic acid, often due to intense exercise or reduced blood flow. Metabolic Acidosis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
- Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function can lead to an inability to remove acid from the body. Metabolic acidosis - Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, & treatment ...
Importance of Maintaining Blood pH
Maintaining a normal blood pH is crucial for proper bodily function. Significant deviations from the normal range can be life-threatening and necessitate medical intervention. The body has several mechanisms to regulate blood pH, including the respiratory and renal systems.
