Definition

Noun: * Physiological equilibrium: The state of normal equilibrium between acids and bases (alkalis) in the bodily fluids, particularly the blood. Maintaining this balance is crucial for normal cellular function and metabolism. In a healthy state, this results in blood that is slightly alkaline.

Usage

The term "acid-base balance" is used exclusively in medical, physiological, and biochemical contexts to describe a critical homeostatic condition of the body. * It is often discussed in relation to being maintained, disturbed, regulated, or restored. * It is a non-count noun; it is not typically used in the plural form.

Examples

• The kidneys and lungs work together to maintain the body's acid-base balance.
• Severe vomiting can disrupt the acid-base balance, leading to a condition called alkalosis.
• The doctor ordered blood tests to check the patient's acid-base balance.
• Acid-base balance is essential for the proper functioning of enzymes.

Advanced Usage

• Clinical assessment: The term is central to interpreting arterial blood gas (ABG) results, which measure parameters like pH, pCO2, and bicarbonate to assess this balance.
  • The ABG analysis provides a detailed picture of the patient's acid-base balance.
• In discussion of disorders: It is used when describing acidosis (excess acid) or alkalosis (excess base).
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening disturbance of the acid-base balance.

Variants and Related Words

• Acid-base equilibrium: A direct synonym, often used interchangeably.
• pH balance: A more general and common term that refers to the same concept, emphasizing the measurement of acidity or alkalinity on the pH scale.
• Homeostasis: The broader physiological concept of maintaining internal stability, of which acid-base balance is a key part.

Synonyms

• Acid-base equilibrium
• pH balance (in a physiological context)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Acid-base status: Refers to the current measured state of the balance.
  • We need to monitor the patient's acid-base status closely.
• Buffer system: A chemical system that resists changes in pH, crucial for maintaining acid-base balance.
  • The bicarbonate buffer system is vital for acid-base balance in the blood.

Noun

1. (physiology) the normal equilibrium between acids and alkalis in the body
   • with a normal acid-base balance in the body the blood is slightly alkaline