Carbon Dioxide (Bicarbonate)
Discover CO2/Bicarbonate levels for acid-base balance and respiratory function. Monitor metabolic health indicators effectively.
What is Carbon Dioxide (Bicarbonate)?
Carbon dioxide (CO2) or bicarbonate is a measure of your body’s acid-base balance. It represents the bicarbonate buffering system that helps maintain blood pH within normal limits. This marker is essential for detecting metabolic and respiratory disorders that affect acid-base balance.
Why is it Tested?
Doctors order CO2/bicarbonate to evaluate acid-base disorders, monitor patients with kidney or lung disease, and assess electrolyte imbalances. It’s routinely included in basic metabolic panels to screen for conditions like metabolic acidosis, alkalosis, or compensation for respiratory disorders.
Normal Ranges
Reference ranges vary by lab. General adult guidelines:
- Adults: 23–29 mmol/L
Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
Low CO2/Bicarbonate
Low levels indicate metabolic acidosis or compensation for respiratory alkalosis and may point to:
- Kidney disease or failure
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Severe diarrhea or dehydration
- Certain medications (metformin, salicylates)
High CO2/Bicarbonate
Elevated levels indicate metabolic alkalosis or compensation for respiratory acidosis. Possible causes include:
- Severe vomiting or gastric suctioning
- Diuretic use
- Primary hyperaldosteronism
- Chronic lung disease (COPD)
How to Track Over Time
Tracking CO2/bicarbonate levels over time helps monitor kidney function and acid-base balance. Gradual changes may indicate progression of chronic kidney disease or developing metabolic disorders before symptoms become apparent.
Track your Carbon Dioxide (Bicarbonate) results over time
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