What condition results when blood pH drops below 7.35?

When blood pH drops below 7.35, the condition that arises is referred to as acidosis. This condition indicates an increase in acidity in the blood and typically reflects an underlying health issue that can result from various causes such as respiratory failure, metabolic disorders, or other medical conditions leading to the accumulation of acid or loss of bicarbonate.

Acidosis can manifest in two main forms: respiratory acidosis, resulting from inadequate ventilation and therefore increased carbon dioxide, and metabolic acidosis, which can stem from conditions that produce excessive acid or loss of bicarbonate in the body. The significance of recognizing acidosis is vital, as it can lead to severe physiological disturbances impacting organ function if not addressed.

In contrast, alkalosis occurs when blood pH exceeds 7.45, which is the opposite condition to acidosis. Normal pH refers to the typical range of blood pH, which is approximately between 7.35 and 7.45, and hyperemia involves an excess of blood in the vessels supplying an organ or tissue. Understanding these differences is critical for recognizing and responding to varied clinical situations effectively.