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Respiratory disorders can lead to changes in blood pH primarily by affecting gas exchange and carbon dioxide retention. The human body maintains a delicate acid-base balance, where the normal pH of blood is around 7.35 to 7.45. This balance is largely regulated by the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood.

When respiratory disorders occur, they can impair the lungs' ability to effectively exchange gases. For instance, conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or severe asthma can lead to inadequate ventilation, causing CO2 to accumulate in the bloodstream. This excess CO2 combines with water to form carbonic acid, which can lead to a decrease in blood pH, resulting in respiratory acidosis.

Conversely, if a person hyperventilates due to anxiety or other factors, they may expel too much CO2, which also affects pH levels and can lead to respiratory alkalosis. Therefore, the direct link between the respiratory system's function and blood gas levels illustrates how respiratory disorders can significantly alter blood pH.