The normal pH of human blood ranges from 7.35 to 7.45. This slightly alkaline (basic) pH is crucial for maintaining proper bodily function. Slight deviations from this range can indicate serious medical conditions.
Understanding Blood pH
Blood pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of your blood. It's maintained within a narrow range through complex physiological mechanisms. A pH below 7.35 is considered acidic (acidosis), while a pH above 7.45 is considered alkaline (alkalosis). Both conditions can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Several factors influence blood pH, including:
- Carbon dioxide levels: Increased carbon dioxide levels lead to a lower pH (more acidic).
- Bicarbonate levels: Bicarbonate acts as a buffer, helping to regulate pH. Lower bicarbonate levels can lead to acidosis.
- Kidney function: The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating acid-base balance by excreting excess acid or base.
- Respiratory function: The lungs help regulate pH by controlling carbon dioxide levels.
- Metabolic processes: Metabolic processes produce acids that need to be neutralized or eliminated.
Many resources confirm this pH range including:
- Merck Manual Consumer Version: "Blood is normally slightly basic, with a normal pH range of about 7.35 to 7.45. Usually the body maintains the pH of blood close to 7.40." https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/hormonal-and-metabolic-disorders/acid-base-balance/overview-of-acid-base-balance
- Healthline: "Your blood has a normal pH range of 7.35 to 7.45. This means that blood is naturally slightly alkaline or basic." https://www.healthline.com/health/ph-of-blood
- Cleveland Clinic: "An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood as well as your blood's pH balance." https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22409-arterial-blood-gas-abg
Maintaining the correct blood pH is essential for overall health. Significant deviations warrant immediate medical attention.
