Acidosis is defined as which of the following?

• A. Increases in H+ ions in tissue
• B. Decreases in H+ ions in tissue
• C. Increases bicarbonate
• D. Decreases carbon dioxide

Answer: (A)

Acidosis is a state of increased hydrogen ion concentration, which lowers the pH of body fluids. When H+ rises, acidity increases, so the defining feature is more H+ ions. That’s why the option describing increases in H+ ions is correct. If H+ were to decrease, pH would rise and alkalosis would occur. Increasing bicarbonate or decreasing CO2 generally raise pH (reduce acidity) rather than cause acidosis.