What is a common clinical sign of respiratory acidosis?

In respiratory acidosis, the primary physiological disturbance is an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) due to inadequate ventilation. This leads to an increase in hydrogen ion concentration, resulting in a decrease in blood pH. As the condition progresses, it can significantly affect the central nervous system.

Confusion is a common clinical sign in respiratory acidosis because elevated levels of CO2 can impair cerebral function. The brain is sensitive to changes in pH, and when acidosis occurs, it can lead to altered mental status, ranging from mild disorientation to more severe confusion or even coma in extreme cases. This reflects the brain's response to the increased acidity of the blood and the consequent disturbance in neuronal activity.

The other signs associated with respiratory acidosis, such as increased heart rate, muscle cramps, and hyperactivity, may be less direct correlates of the condition and often represent responses to other physiological factors rather than the primary disturbance itself. In essence, confusion serves as a clear indicator of the impact of excessive CO2 on the brain, making it a hallmark sign of respiratory acidosis.