Acid base balance

The normal blood pH is 7.4. Maintenance of normal blood and extracellular pH within the narrow limits is essential for homeostasis. The pH usually refers to the hydrogen ion (H⁺)  concentration and has a widespread effect on the function of  the body systems. Any disturbance in the H⁺ ion concentration leads to imbalance of pH.

When pH rises above the optimal value it is referred to as alkalosis and if pH drops below optimum level it is referred as acidosis.

Regulation of hydrogen ion concentration

• Three primary buffer systems are involved in regulation of H⁺ ion concentration in the body fluids to prevent alkalosis or acidosis–
  1. Chemical acid base buffer systems
  2. Respiratory regulation of acid base balance
  3. Renal control of acid base balance