01/02/2026
π« RESPIRATORY ACIDOSIS β ABG INTERPRETATION MADE SIMPLE
Respiratory acidosis is a common and high-yield ABG abnormality encountered in ICU, emergency, pediatrics, medicine, anesthesia, and pulmonology. This post explains respiratory acidosis in a clear, stepwise, exam-oriented manner, exactly the way it is expected in NEET PG, INICET, FMGE and during on-call duties.
π Key concepts covered: β
Definition of respiratory acidosis
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ABG pattern (β pH, β PaCOβ, HCOββ» changes)
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Acute vs chronic respiratory acidosis with exact compensation values
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Pathophysiology explained in one flow line
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High-yield causes (COPD, severe asthma, CNS depression, drugs, neuromuscular disorders)
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Clinical features including COβ narcosis
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One-line diagnosis format for exam answers
π Core concept to remember:
π Respiratory acidosis is due to hypoventilation
π Lungs fail first, kidneys compensate later
π― Best suited for: β’ MBBS students
β’ Interns & residents
β’ ICU / emergency postings
β’ Rapid ABG revision before exams
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β οΈ Disclaimer:
This content is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace clinical judgment or institutional protocols.
π If any misprint, please comment below.