Respiratory acidosis

A condition in which the lungs can't remove all of the body's carbon dioxide.

Overview

With respiratory acidosis, the lungs can't expel enough carbon dioxide. Acids then build up in the body. The cause is a decreased breathing rate or volume due to certain diseases, medications, or severe obesity.

Symptoms

Symptoms include headache, confusion, and sleepiness.

Treatments

Treatments may include oxygen and a mechanical breathing device.