What condition can lead to respiratory acidosis?

Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to a decrease in blood pH. This can happen due to various factors that impair the lungs' ability to expel carbon dioxide effectively. Centrally acting depressants, such as certain medications that affect the central nervous system, can suppress respiratory function. This includes sedatives and narcotics, which can lead to decreased respiratory rate or depth. When breathing becomes inadequate, carbon dioxide accumulates, resulting in respiratory acidosis.

Other conditions, such as hyperventilation, do not lead to respiratory acidosis; instead, they can cause respiratory alkalosis due to excessive exhalation of carbon dioxide. Excessive hydration is not directly related to changes in carbon dioxide levels or respiratory function, and while excessive exercise may initially increase carbon dioxide production, it typically stimulates increased respiration and does not lead to respiratory acidosis. Thus, the impact of centrally acting depressants on respiratory function is the key reason they can lead to respiratory acidosis.