In metabolic acidosis, which of the following changes are seen :
**Core Concept**
Metabolic acidosis is a condition characterized by an excess of acid or a deficiency of bicarbonate in the body, leading to a decrease in blood pH. It can result from various causes, including diabetic ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, or renal failure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In metabolic acidosis, the kidneys compensate by increasing the excretion of hydrogen ions and increasing the reabsorption of bicarbonate ions. This leads to a decrease in the concentration of hydrogen ions in the blood, which in turn increases the pH. Additionally, the increased excretion of hydrogen ions leads to a decrease in the concentration of ammonium ions in the urine. The kidneys also increase the production of ammonia to help buffer the excess hydrogen ions, leading to an increase in the concentration of ammonia in the urine.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because metabolic acidosis does not lead to a decrease in the excretion of hydrogen ions by the kidneys.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because metabolic acidosis does not lead to an increase in the reabsorption of hydrogen ions by the kidneys.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because metabolic acidosis does not lead to a decrease in the concentration of ammonia in the urine.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In metabolic acidosis, the kidneys compensate by increasing the production of ammonia to help buffer the excess hydrogen ions, leading to an increase in the concentration of ammonia in the urine. This is an important mechanism to remember, as it highlights the kidneys' role in maintaining acid-base balance.
**Correct Answer: A**