What effect does aging have on PaCO₂ in the healthy adult?
A) PaCO₂ remains constant throughout adult life
B) It decreases 2 mmHg per year after age 45
C) It increases 2 mmHg per year after age 45
D) It decreases until age 75 then levels off.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

PaCO₂ remains relatively constant throughout adult life in healthy individuals. Age-related changes in breathing patterns and lung function may lead to small variations, but they are not significant enough to cause a noticeable change in PaCO₂ levels.

What Effect Does Aging Have on PaCO₂ in the Healthy