Acid-base physiology

Acid-base physiology involves maintaining the body's pH balance, primarily regulated by the lungs and kidneys. The body produces acids during normal processes, which need to be neutralized or removed to keep blood pH around 7.35-7.45. The lungs help by exhaling carbon dioxide, an acid, while the kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and reabsorb bicarbonate, a buffering agent. This teamwork keeps the blood's acidity stable, ensuring enzymes and bodily functions work properly. Disruptions can lead to conditions like acidosis (too acidic) or alkalosis (too alkaline), affecting health.