A member asked:

Why need i increase bicarbonate (sodium bicarbonate) levels in respiratory acidosis?

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. Douglas Arenberg answered

Specializes in Pulmonary Critical Care

Acid-base: Physiology is like a delicate balance. If one organ fails to carry its weight, another organ has to compensate. For your acid-base balance, bicarbonate (sodium bicarbonate) (regulated by the kidney) is one side of the balance, and co2 (the lungs responsibility) is the other. If the lungs allow you to accumulate too much co2, then the kidneys (if healthy) will make and retain more bicarbonate (sodium bicarbonate).

Answered 6/21/2014

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