Hypercapnia and hypercarbia are two terms that are often confused and used interchangeably. However, they are not the same thing. While both terms refer to an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood, they are actually two different conditions.
What is Hypercapnia?
Hypercapnia is an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including respiratory failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and sleep apnea. Hypercapnia can also be caused by certain medications or by exposure to high levels of carbon dioxide in the environment. In severe cases, hypercapnia can lead to unconsciousness, coma, and even death.
What is Hypercarbia?
Hypercarbia is an increase in the amount of both carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2) in the blood. This condition is often caused by a decrease in lung function due to conditions such as COPD, asthma, or pulmonary edema. Hypercarbia can also be caused by certain medications or by exposure to high levels of oxygen in the environment. In severe cases, hypercarbia can lead to unconsciousness, coma, and even death.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hypercapnia and hypercarbia are not the same thing. While both conditions refer to an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood, they are actually two different conditions. Hypercapnia occurs when there is an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood, while hypercarbia occurs when there is an increase in both carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood.
