Understanding Elevated Blood CO2: Causes and Potential Risks

CO2 is the chemical symbol for carbon dioxide, a gas that everyone has in his blood. Normal levels of blood CO2 should be in neighborhood of 20 to 29 milli-equivalent per liter (mEq/L) (see link in Resources). Several factors, ranging in seriousness, can cause blood CO2 levels to rise.

Respiratory Distress

• Having trouble breathing from respiratory failure or other breathing problems can cause carbon dioxide levels in the blood to increase.

Vomiting

• If you have a stomach flu or another illness that has caused you to vomit continuously for a long period of time, your blood CO2 levels can become elevated. Vomiting once in a while does not put you at risk for this complication.

Hormonal Imbalances

• Hormonal imbalances, such as Conn syndrome and Cushing syndrome, may lead to increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. Conn syndrome involves the adrenal gland, while Cushing syndrome is a condition in which your body has too much cortisol.

Medications

• According to James S. Winshall, M.D. of Harvard Medical School, high dosages of certain medications, such as antacids or diuretics, could cause your blood CO2 concentration to rise (see link in Resources).

Low Potassium

• If you have a potassium deficiency, your blood CO2 could be too high.