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Hypercapnia

Description

Hypercapnia is a disorder characterized by too much carbon dioxide in the blood. It is generally caused by lung disease or hypoventilation and can also be caused by exposure to environments high in carbon dioxide such as underwater diving. Patients with sleep apnea who are administered oxygen may also suffer from hypercapnia.

Diagnosis

It is diagnosed in patients who complain of an elevated pulse, flushed skin, muscle twitches or an abnormally high blood pressure. Severe hypercapnia can lead to disorientation, convulsions, hyperventilation and unconciousness.

Treatment

Ventilation machines are the most common treatment. Administering of oxygen may worsen a patient’s hypercapnia.

Source: Adapted from International Classification of Sleep Disorders Diagnostic & Coding Manual, American Academy of Sleep Medicine.