Question

21 multiple choice 2 points chronic diarrhea would lead to: metabolic alkalosis. metabolic acidosis. respiratory acidosis. respiratory alkalosis.

Explanation:

Chronic diarrhea causes loss of bicarbonate - rich intestinal secretions. This leads to a decrease in the body's bicarbonate levels. A decrease in bicarbonate results in metabolic acidosis as the body's acid - base balance is disrupted with an increase in hydrogen ion concentration relative to bicarbonate. Metabolic alkalosis is related to an increase in bicarbonate or loss of acid. Respiratory acidosis and alkalosis are due to problems with carbon dioxide elimination or retention by the lungs, not directly related to chronic diarrhea.

Answer:

B. metabolic acidosis