Which of the following statements explain the alkalemia that develops at high altitudes?
I.Lack of oxygen at high altitudes creates a chemical stimulus for ventilation.
II.Increased ventilation drives the PACO₂ and PaCO₂below 40 mm Hg.
III.Low PaCO₂ lowers the blood H₂CO₃concentration.
IV.Low PaCO₂ lowers PaO₂ and promotes buffer release.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lack of oxygen at high altitudes creates a chemical stimulus for ventilation, overriding the regulatory system that normally maintains a PACO₂ of 40 mm Hg. In such circumstances the increased ventilation drives the PACO₂ and PaCO₂ below 40 mm Hg, lowering the blood H₂CO₃ concentration; this creates a state of arterial alkalemia.

Which of the Following Statements Explain the Alkalemia That Develops