What term describes the condition of increased acidity in the blood?

The condition of increased acidity in the blood is referred to as acidosis. Acidosis arises when the pH level of the blood drops below the normal range, indicating an increase in hydrogen ion concentration. This can occur due to various factors, including respiratory issues where carbon dioxide accumulates (leading to respiratory acidosis) or metabolic processes that produce excess acid or reduce bicarbonate levels (leading to metabolic acidosis).

The understanding of acidosis is crucial because it impacts various bodily functions and may require therapeutic interventions to restore the normal pH balance. In contrast, the other terms mentioned relate to different conditions: hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, polydipsia denotes excessive thirst often associated with diabetes, and hypoglycemia indicates low blood sugar levels. Each of these terms describes distinct physiological states not directly related to blood acidity.