What does hypercapnia refer to in a medical context?

In a medical context, hypercapnia specifically refers to elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. This condition typically arises when there is an imbalance between the amount of carbon dioxide produced by the body and the amount removed through respiration. When breathing is inadequate—whether due to disease, respiratory failure, or other factors—carbon dioxide builds up in the bloodstream, leading to hypercapnia. This can have several physiological effects, including respiratory acidosis and altered levels of consciousness.

Understanding hypercapnia is crucial as it can serve as an indicator of various respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or severe asthma. Monitoring carbon dioxide levels can guide treatment decisions and help assess the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving respiratory function.