What condition is characterized by an excess of acid in the body?

The condition characterized by an excess of acid in the body is acidosis. Acidosis occurs when the blood pH drops below the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45, indicating an acidic environment. This can result from a variety of underlying issues, including respiratory problems where carbon dioxide is not adequately removed from the body, or metabolic issues relating to kidney function, among other causes.

Acidosis can lead to various physiological disturbances and complications if not appropriately managed. It is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize and treat acidosis promptly to restore the body’s acid-base balance and prevent potential health risks.

In contrast, alkalosis represents a state of excess base or loss of acid, resulting in a higher pH in the body. Paralytic ileus refers to a condition where there is a temporary cessation of bowel movement, and a wound infection pertains to an infection that occurs in a surgical site, neither of which are related to acid levels in the body. Therefore, the correct identification of acidosis highlights a foundational concept in understanding and managing metabolic conditions effectively in clinical practice.