What is metabolic acidosis characterized by?

Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in pH due to an accumulation of acids or a significant loss of bicarbonate in the body. This condition results in an increased concentration of hydrogen ions, which leads to a lower pH value in the blood. A pH below the normal range (7.35-7.45) indicates that the blood has become more acidic.

Understanding the physiological changes that occur during metabolic acidosis is crucial. The body responds to this condition by attempting to compensate through various mechanisms, such as increased respiration to exhale carbon dioxide, which can help to partially correct the acid-base balance. However, the initial state of metabolic acidosis is always marked by that distinct decrease in pH, distinguishing it from other types of acid-base disorders.