CO2
Total CO2 on a blood chemistry panel mainly reflects bicarbonate — the body's primary chemical buffer that keeps blood pH within a tight range. Bicarbonate levels are managed by the kidneys and shift in response to breathing patterns.
Why it matters: Higher or lower CO2 (bicarbonate) values can indicate the body is compensating for acid-base shifts, whether from breathing rate changes, kidney filtering changes, or metabolic states like prolonged vomiting or kidney conditions.
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is CO2?
Total CO2 on a blood chemistry panel mainly reflects bicarbonate — the body's primary chemical buffer that keeps blood pH within a tight range. Bicarbonate levels are managed by the kidneys and shift in response to breathing patterns.
What might a high or low CO2 mean?
Higher or lower CO2 (bicarbonate) values can indicate the body is compensating for acid-base shifts, whether from breathing rate changes, kidney filtering changes, or metabolic states like prolonged vomiting or kidney conditions.
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.
What can affect CO2?
It may be higher with: Hyperventilation, Metabolic alkalosis. It may be lower with: Hypoventilation, Metabolic acidosis.