Why Are COPD Patients with Chronic Hypercapnia Unable to Hyperventilate

Why are COPD patients with chronic hypercapnia unable to hyperventilate to decrease their PaCO₂?

A) The central chemoreceptors respond only to O₂ concentration changes, not to changes in CO₂.
B) The central chemoreceptors are insensitive to acute or chronic changes in PaCO₂.
C) The central chemoreceptors respond to [H⁺], not the CO₂ molecule.
D) The central chemoreceptors do not respond to changes in hydrogen ion concentration or PaCO₂.

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free