CO2
Bicarbonate is one of the electrolytes measured in a blood electrolyte panel. It maintains a healthy balance of acids and basic alkaline compounds in the blood, known as acid-base balance, and it moves carbon dioxide through the bloodstream.
Why it matters: Providers typically order an electrolyte panel to diagnose conditions that cause electrolyte imbalances, to monitor whether treatment for an electrolyte imbalance is working, and to evaluate whether certain symptoms are due to an electrolyte imbalance. An electrolyte imbalance may be a sign of a heart, lung or kidney problem.
Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters
What is CO2?
Bicarbonate is one of the electrolytes measured in a blood electrolyte panel. It maintains a healthy balance of acids and basic alkaline compounds in the blood, known as acid-base balance, and it moves carbon dioxide through the bloodstream.
What might a high or low CO2 mean?
Providers typically order an electrolyte panel to diagnose conditions that cause electrolyte imbalances, to monitor whether treatment for an electrolyte imbalance is working, and to evaluate whether certain symptoms are due to an electrolyte imbalance. An electrolyte imbalance may be a sign of a heart, lung or kidney problem.
What is the typical reference range for CO2?
The general-population reference range shown here is 23 – 29 mEq/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.