The increase in Carbon Dioxide present in the blood can decrease blood pH, a condition known as acidosis. The Carbon Dioxide reacts with water to produce Carbonic Acid, as shown in this chemical equation. This Carbonic Acid then dissociates to produce hydronium ions, which increases the acidity of the blood and therefore lower the pH. This increase in acidity is known as acidosis and occurs when the kidneys and lungs cannot maintain the body’s pH. The ideal blood pH is around 7.4, and once acidosis is identified by a pH of less than 7.35. In particular, this is known as respiratory acidosis and occurs due to poor lung function or slow breathing. Causes include lung disorders such as asthma, sleep-disordered breathing, disorders of the nerves
