The Significance of Elevated Carbon Dioxide in Blood

Carbon dioxide levels in the blood are measured with a CO2 test. This test measures bicarbonate, a form of carbon dioxide. Elevated blood levels of carbon dioxide can be caused by several conditions.

Electrolytes

Doctors often order a CO2 test together with a test of electrolytes and salts in the blood, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Abnormal blood levels of carbon dioxide can cause imbalances in the bodys electrolytes.

Kidneys and Lungs

A patients kidneys maintain proper carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream and high CO2 levels may be a sign of a kidney disorder. Breathing disorders and other lung problems can also affect the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in a persons blood.

Cushing's Syndrome

Elevated blood levels of CO2 can be caused by Cushing's syndrome, a disorder that causes high levels of cortisol in the body.

Hyperaldosteronism

People with hyperaldosteronism, a condition that causes the adrenal glands to produce excessive amounts of aldosterone, may develop high blood levels of carbon dioxide.

Vomiting

People can develop high levels of carbon dioxide in their blood after significant vomiting.