What is hypercapnia?

Hypercapnia refers to elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. This condition can occur when there is an imbalance in the respiratory system's ability to remove CO2 through exhalation. It often arises due to respiratory diseases, hypoventilation, or other factors that impair gas exchange in the lungs. High levels of CO2 can lead to various physiological changes, including respiratory acidosis, where the pH of the blood decreases, affecting the body's acid-base balance.

Understanding hypercapnia is crucial in clinical settings, as it can lead to symptoms such as headache, confusion, drowsiness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Clinicians must assess respiratory function and monitor CO2 levels to manage conditions that may result in hypercapnia effectively.