What measure can lead to correcting hypercapnia?

Prepare for the ASU BIO202 Human Anatomy and Physiology II Exam. Study with detailed questions and explanations. Master your exam material!

Deep breathing is an effective measure for correcting hypercapnia, which is an elevated level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. When an individual engages in deep breathing, the lungs are able to take in more air, thereby increasing the volume of oxygen that enters the body and facilitating the expulsion of CO2. This enhanced ventilation helps restore the balance of gases in the bloodstream, lowering the levels of carbon dioxide and alleviating the symptoms associated with hypercapnia.

In contrast, hypoventilation would lead to an increase in carbon dioxide levels since it reduces the rate of air exchange in the lungs. Breath-holding exercises may temporarily increase CO2 levels as well, since the body is not able to expel carbon dioxide during the hold. Cessation of exercise may not directly address CO2 levels, as it would simply stop metabolic processes temporarily but not improve ventilation.

Thus, deep breathing actively promotes better gas exchange, making it the most effective choice for correcting hypercapnia.

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