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A carbon dioxide blood test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood and determine if your body is balancing electrolytes properly. CO2 is a waste product produced by the body's cells as they use oxygen to produce energy. It is carried in the blood to the lungs, where it is exhaled. To perform a carbon dioxide blood test, a healthcare provider will collect a blood sample from the patient and send it to a laboratory for analysis.
Normal CO2 levels in the blood vary depending on the patient's age and gender, but generally, a normal range is between 22 and 29 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Elevated CO2 levels can indicate the presence of certain medical conditions, such as kidney failure or respiratory problems. Low CO2 levels can also be a sign of certain medical conditions, such as severe dehydration or overuse of diuretics.
A carbon dioxide blood test is often ordered along with other diagnostic tests to help diagnose and treat medical conditions.
This page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute the provision of medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice regarding any of the tests and conditions referenced above are advised to consult with a licensed clinician. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider regarding a medical condition and do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of any information on this page. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care center or hospital.
