Which statement best outlines the reason hyperventilation can result in loss of consciousness?
A) Hyperventilation eliminates too little CO2, causes an increase in blood H2CO3 and consequently in blood H+, and thereby may produce acidosis.
B) Increases in oxygen ion concentration above a certain level depress the central nervous system and, therefore, produce such symptoms as disorientation and coma.
C) Decreases in hydrogen ion concentration above a certain level depress the central nervous system and, therefore, produce such symptoms as disorientation and coma.
D) Increases in hydrogen ion concentration above a certain level depress the central nervous system and, therefore, produce such symptoms as disorientation and coma.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hyperventilation causes a decrease in blood CO2 levels, which leads to a decrease in H+ ion concentration in the blood. This results in an increase in blood pH (alkalosis). As pH rises, it can cause vasoconstriction, which leads to decreased cerebral blood flow to the brain. Decreased cerebral blood flow can result in cerebral hypoxia and can cause disorientation, breathing irregularities, and loss of consciousness.

Which Statement Best Outlines the Reason Hyperventilation Can Result in Loss