How do the different buffer systems help to regulate acid-base balance in the body?
The body has several buffer systems to help accomplish the task of maintaining a normal pH range in the body so that metabolic and respiratory homeostasis can be maintained. The bicarbonate-carbonic acid system represents the body’s primary buffer system. This bicarbonate system helps to maintain normal pH range by effectively responding to changes in the hydrogen ion concentration in the extracellular fluid. The respiratory buffer system is controlled by the amount of carbon dioxide present in the extracellular fluid. This response operates quickly and is the body’s initial mechanism to maintain normal pH. The kidneys control the metabolic response to the amount of hydrogen ion concentration. This response is slower to occur but is more effective in maintaining a normal pH. All of these buffer systems function together in order to assist the client in compensation and restoration of normal pH values.
