Aand p mastering
table 21.3 factors affecting insulin and glucagon release
problems with ph
you have explained joe's dehydration and low blood pressure. but he had some other unusual signs and symptoms. let's look again:
joe appears confused and lethargic. he is breathing heavily and has a strong fruity odor. his respirations are more rapid than normal, 25 breaths/min, and heavy. his blood glucose is elevated at 240 mg/dl. his urine also has a lower ph than normal.
insulin does not explain these problems. they are due to a hormone from the alpha cells of the pancreas − glucagon. this hormone is released in response to many stimuli, including the sympathetic nervous system. let's apply the functions of glucagon to explain why joe has a low urine ph and a fruity odor.