Campbell Biology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0135188741
ISBN 13: 978-0-13518-874-3

Chapter 42 - 42.7 - Concept Check - Page 949: 3

Answer

The doctor is assuming that the patient's blood has a lower than normal pH.

Work Step by Step

Remember section 42.6 and the questions therein. An increase in CO$_2$ and decrease in oxygen causes decreased blood pH and stimulates processes to try to gain more oxygen, such as increased heart and breathing rates. A patient who has a low blood pH would likely also be showing signs of their body trying to rebalance. This is not the sole cause for such a symptom, however-- a doctor would use more information than just breathing rate to determine a diagnosis and treatment plan.
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