Nursing School Edition #2
Hypercarbia
Hypercarbia is defined as the increase of carbon dioxide within the bloodstream. Another name that might be used instead is Hypercapnia. This can be caused due to hyperventilation or not being able to breathe properly.
Some of the symptoms that might be seen are:
- Drowsiness or the inability to focus
- Flushed looking skin
- Headaches and feeling disoriented
- Feeling short of breath or fatigued
If feeling abnormal seek medical treatment or consult your physician.
Reference
- Abdo, W. F., & Heunks, L. M. A. (2012). Oxygen-induced hypercapnia in COPD: myths and facts. Critical Care, 16(5), 323
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3682248/
Katie Writes 