Most of the CO₂ in the blood travels as HCO₃⁻ and H⁺ ions in the plasma. Which of the following would a physician most likely find upon examining a person who has recently had Acute Mountain Sickness (Altitude Sickness)?
1) Increased levels of O2 in the plasma
2) A decreased rate of ventilation
3) An increased red blood cell count
4) An increased white blood cell count