Which respiratory condition can cause increased ventilation and lead to respiratory alkalosis?

An acute asthma attack can lead to increased ventilation due to the body's compensatory response to hypoxia and increased carbon dioxide levels. During an asthma attack, bronchoconstriction occurs, which can initially reduce airflow and result in the body retaining carbon dioxide. However, as the respiratory drive increases in response to low oxygen levels, the patient may begin to hyperventilate. This excessive ventilation expels carbon dioxide more rapidly than it can be produced, leading to a decrease in arterial carbon dioxide levels.

As a result, the blood pH rises, causing respiratory alkalosis, which is characterized by a higher-than-normal pH due to decreased carbon dioxide levels. This condition reflects the body's attempt to correct the hypoxia experienced during an asthma attack, ultimately resulting in a state of alkalosis if the hyperventilation persists.

In contrast, other respiratory conditions listed may not lead to the same pathological response. Chronic bronchitis typically causes an increased retention of carbon dioxide and respiratory acidosis instead. Interstitial lung disease can lead to restriction and inadequate ventilation but does not generally result in respiratory alkalosis as a primary effect. Asthma, while significant, often refers to chronic or subacute management rather than the acute hyperventilation response seen in an acute attack. Only