Question:

What acid-base disturbance is expected in a person trekking at high altitude due to hyperventilation?

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High altitude causes hypoxia-induced hyperventilation, leading to respiratory alkalosis.
Updated On: May 14, 2026
  • Metabolic acidosis
  • Metabolic alkalosis
  • Respiratory acidosis
  • Respiratory alkalosis
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: At high altitude, hypoxia stimulates peripheral chemoreceptors, causing hyperventilation. Hyperventilation decreases carbon dioxide levels, leading to respiratory alkalosis.

Step 1:
Identify the stimulus.
High altitude causes hypoxia.

Step 2:
Understand respiratory response.
Hypoxia stimulates ventilation: \[ \text{Hyperventilation} \]

Step 3:
Determine acid-base change.
Hyperventilation removes excess CO$_2$: \[ CO_2 \downarrow \Rightarrow pH \uparrow \] This causes: \[ \text{Respiratory alkalosis} \] Therefore, the correct answer is Respiratory alkalosis.
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