Oxygen and Hypercapnia
What is Hypercapnia?
Hypercapnia, also known as hypercarbia or CO2 retention, is a condition in which there are abnormally high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. This can lead to an increase in the acidity of the blood (respiratory acidosis) and can cause a number of serious health problems. Hypercapnia is usually caused by inadequate ventilation of the lungs, which prevents the body from effectively removing CO2 from the bloodstream.
Does Oxygen Help Hypercapnia?
Yes, oxygen can help to reduce the levels of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream by aiding in the removal of CO2 from the lungs. Supplemental oxygen can help to increase the oxygen levels in the blood, which can help to reduce the amount of CO2 that is present. In addition, oxygen therapy can help to reduce the symptoms of hypercapnia, such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and fatigue.