What term describes an abnormally high level of carbon dioxide in the blood?

The term that describes an abnormally high level of carbon dioxide in the blood is hypercapnia. This condition occurs when the body is unable to remove CO2 efficiently through respiration, leading to respiratory acidosis and related physiological changes. Hypercapnia can be caused by various factors, including respiratory diseases, reduced ventilation, or certain neurological conditions that affect breathing.

Understanding the mechanisms of hypercapnia is important because it can have significant implications for dive medicine and the management of patients, especially in scenarios involving underwater environments where respiration can be further compromised. Maintaining appropriate levels of carbon dioxide is crucial for acid-base balance and overall metabolic function, so recognizing and addressing hypercapnia is essential in clinical settings.

In contrast, hypoxia refers to low levels of oxygen in the tissues, while hyperoxia indicates an excess of oxygen. Hyperventilation is a state of increased breathing that leads to decreased carbon dioxide levels rather than increasing them. Each of these terms describes different physiological states, highlighting the importance of accurate terminology in understanding respiratory and gas exchange dynamics.