When someone hyperventilates, a condition known as respiratory alkalosis can occur. Explain the cause and effect of respiratory alkalosis. Hint: Reference Exercises 146 and 147 .

Respiratory alkalosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood becomes higher than normal (alkaline), due to increased removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body. This can result from hyperventilation, leading to an imbalance in the acid-base homeostasis.

The primary cause of respiratory alkalosis is hyperventilation, which is rapid or deep breathing. When a person hyperventilates, they exhale more CO2 than they produce. CO2 is involved in the formation of carbonic acid (H2CO3) in the bloodstream, which in turn contributes to the body's overall pH level. When the CO2 levels decrease, there is less carbonic acid in the blood, leading to a rise in blood pH.

As a result of respiratory alkalosis, the body experiences several physiological changes to maintain the balance between acids and bases. These changes include: 1. The kidneys attempt to compensate for the increased blood pH by decreasing the reabsorption of bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and increasing the excretion of excess bicarbonate ions in the urine. 2. The body's cells respond by taking up more bicarbonate ions and releasing hydrogen ions (H+) to counter the rise in blood pH. 3. The increased blood pH can cause symptoms such as dizziness, light-headedness, confusion, and muscle twitching, as well as changes in the electrical activity of the heart, leading to arrhythmias or other cardiac issues. In conclusion, respiratory alkalosis occurs when hyperventilation causes a decrease in CO2 levels in the blood, leading to an increase in blood pH. The body then attempts to restore the acid-base balance through various physiological mechanisms. Respiratory alkalosis can have various effects on the body that can lead to serious health issues if not treated promptly.