Which condition is characterized by an excessive level of carbon dioxide in the blood?

Which condition is characterized by an excessive level of carbon dioxide in the blood?

• A. Hypocapnia
• B. Hypercapnia
• C. Hypoxemia
• D. Hyperoxia

Answer: (B)

Hypercapnia refers to an elevated concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. This condition typically arises when there is insufficient ventilation to expel CO2 produced by cellular metabolism. In healthy individuals, the respiratory system maintains a balance of gases in the blood, ensuring that carbon dioxide levels remain within a narrow range. When the body cannot effectively eliminate CO2 due to factors such as respiratory failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or severe asthma, hypercapnia can develop. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, and shortness of breath, as the high CO2 levels lead to respiratory acidosis, where blood pH decreases, potentially affecting organ function. The other choices depict different gas-related conditions. Hypocapnia refers to low levels of carbon dioxide, which would result from hyperventilation. Hypoxemia denotes low levels of oxygen in the blood, while hyperoxia refers to an excess of oxygen. Each of these conditions has distinct pathophysiological implications and does not represent an excessive level of carbon dioxide, thereby emphasizing why hypercapnia is correctly identified in this context.

Hypercapnia refers to an elevated concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. This condition typically arises when there is insufficient ventilation to expel CO2 produced by cellular metabolism. In healthy individuals, the respiratory system maintains a balance of gases in the blood, ensuring that carbon dioxide levels remain within a narrow range.

When the body cannot effectively eliminate CO2 due to factors such as respiratory failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or severe asthma, hypercapnia can develop. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, and shortness of breath, as the high CO2 levels lead to respiratory acidosis, where blood pH decreases, potentially affecting organ function.

The other choices depict different gas-related conditions. Hypocapnia refers to low levels of carbon dioxide, which would result from hyperventilation. Hypoxemia denotes low levels of oxygen in the blood, while hyperoxia refers to an excess of oxygen. Each of these conditions has distinct pathophysiological implications and does not represent an excessive level of carbon dioxide, thereby emphasizing why hypercapnia is correctly identified in this context.