What causes hypercapnia?

Hypercapnia is caused by the lungs' inability to effectively remove carbon dioxide from the body. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe asthma, pneumonia, sleep apnea, and neuromuscular disorders that weaken breathing muscles are common causes. Certain medications that suppress breathing, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, and conditions affecting the brainstem's respiratory control centers can also lead to CO2 buildup in the bloodstream.

What is the best test for hypercapnia?

The Carbon Dioxide blood test is the most important test for hypercapnia because it directly measures the concentration of CO2 in your bloodstream. Normal CO2 levels range from 22-28 mEq/L, and elevated values above this range confirm hypercapnia. This test is typically performed as part of a basic metabolic panel or blood gas analysis and provides the definitive measurement needed to diagnose the condition. Your healthcare provider may also order arterial blood gas (ABG) testing to assess oxygen levels and blood pH alongside CO2 measurements for a complete respiratory evaluation.

When should I get tested for hypercapnia?

You should get tested if you experience shortness of breath, confusion, headaches, excessive drowsiness, or fatigue that worsens over time. Testing is especially important if you have chronic lung disease like COPD or asthma and notice increased difficulty breathing or changes in mental alertness. Anyone with sleep apnea, unexplained morning headaches, or a history of respiratory problems should consider testing to detect elevated CO2 levels before serious complications develop.

What are the symptoms of hypercapnia?

Symptoms of hypercapnia include shortness of breath, headaches, confusion, dizziness, and excessive fatigue or drowsiness. You might notice flushed skin, increased heart rate, muscle twitches, or feeling disoriented and foggy-headed. Severe hypercapnia can cause extreme drowsiness, difficulty staying awake, seizures, and even loss of consciousness. Many people with chronic hypercapnia develop symptoms gradually and may not notice the progression until CO2 levels become dangerously high.

Who is at risk for hypercapnia?

People with chronic lung diseases like COPD, severe asthma, or emphysema face the highest risk for hypercapnia. Those with sleep apnea, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, or neuromuscular disorders affecting breathing muscles are also vulnerable. Individuals who take sedatives or opioid medications that suppress breathing, people with chest wall deformities, and those with brainstem injuries affecting respiratory control centers have increased risk. Smokers and people with a history of respiratory infections or lung damage are more likely to develop this condition.

What happens if hypercapnia is left untreated?

Untreated hypercapnia can lead to respiratory failure, where the lungs can no longer maintain adequate gas exchange. Chronic CO2 elevation causes blood acidity changes that strain the heart and can lead to cor pulmonale, a form of heart failure. Severe hypercapnia may result in hypercapnic encephalopathy with profound confusion, seizures, coma, and even death. Long-term elevated CO2 levels damage multiple organ systems and significantly reduce quality of life and survival rates.

Can hypercapnia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Yes, hypercapnia is diagnosed through blood tests that measure carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream. The Carbon Dioxide test measures CO2 in venous blood as part of a basic metabolic panel, while arterial blood gas testing provides more detailed information about CO2, oxygen, and blood pH levels. These blood tests are the gold standard for diagnosing hypercapnia and monitoring treatment effectiveness. Results showing CO2 levels above 28 mEq/L indicate elevated carbon dioxide requiring further evaluation.

How is hypercapnia treated?

Hypercapnia treatment focuses on improving ventilation and addressing the underlying cause. Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (BiPAP or CPAP) helps remove excess CO2 by supporting breathing, especially during sleep. Medications like bronchodilators and corticosteroids treat underlying lung conditions, while oxygen therapy must be carefully managed to avoid suppressing the breathing drive. Severe cases may require mechanical ventilation in a hospital setting. Treating conditions like COPD, managing weight in obesity hypoventilation syndrome, and adjusting medications that suppress breathing are essential components of long-term management.

How can I prevent hypercapnia?

You can prevent hypercapnia by managing underlying respiratory conditions with prescribed medications and regular medical follow-up. Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke exposure to protect lung function. Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity increases the risk of breathing problems during sleep. Use CPAP or BiPAP devices as prescribed if you have sleep apnea, and practice breathing exercises recommended by your healthcare provider. Stay current with vaccinations for influenza and pneumonia to prevent respiratory infections that can worsen lung function.

What can I do at home for hypercapnia?

At home, practice pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing exercises to improve CO2 elimination and strengthen respiratory muscles. Elevate the head of your bed to make breathing easier during sleep and use prescribed respiratory devices consistently. Stay hydrated to keep respiratory secretions thin and easier to clear. Avoid respiratory depressants like alcohol and sedatives unless prescribed by your doctor. Monitor your symptoms daily and seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening shortness of breath, increased confusion, or extreme drowsiness, as these may indicate dangerous CO2 buildup.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

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Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

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Hypercapnia Blood Test | Private MD Labs

Hypercapnia Blood Test

What is Hypercapnia?

Hypercapnia is a condition where carbon dioxide levels in the blood become abnormally elevated. It is caused by inadequate removal of CO2 by the lungs due to respiratory disorders, chronic lung disease, or impaired breathing patterns. The Carbon Dioxide blood test is the most important test for diagnosis as it directly measures CO2 concentration in the bloodstream.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 29, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

support@privatemdlabs.com