What Is Carbon Dioxide Retention?

When we breathe in, our bodies take oxygen from the air to help our organs and muscles work. As the body uses oxygen, it produces carbon dioxide (CO?) as a waste gas, which is normally breathed out.

For some people with long-term lung conditions, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the lungs cannot remove carbon dioxide as effectively. This causes carbon dioxide to build up in the blood. This is known as carbon dioxide retention, or hypercapnia.

In some people, breathing in too much oxygen can also cause carbon dioxide levels to rise.

If carbon dioxide levels become too high, it can make you feel very unwell and slow your breathing.

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Signs and Symptoms

Carbon dioxide retention can develop gradually or suddenly.

Symptoms may include:

• Morning headaches
• Feeling dizzy
• Feeling confused or finding it difficult to think clearly
• Feeling unusually sleepy or tired
• Sweating more than usual
• A red or flushed face
• Shaking or flapping of the hands when your arms are stretched out

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

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Who Is More at Risk?

Carbon dioxide retention is more likely if:

• You use oxygen for long periods, such as overnight or for more than 30 minutes at a time
• Your oxygen flow rate has recently been increased
• You are feeling more unwell than usual
• You have a long-term lung condition, such as COPD

Your healthcare professional will discuss your individual risk if you require oxygen therapy.

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Using Oxygen Safely

If you have oxygen at home, it is important to use it exactly as prescribed.

To help keep you safe:

• Always use oxygen at the prescribed flow rate.
• Do not increase or decrease your oxygen unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Follow the instructions provided by your respiratory team.

Using oxygen correctly helps ensure you receive the benefits of treatment while reducing the risk of complications.

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When to Seek Help

If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of carbon dioxide retention:

During Community Respiratory Specialist Team opening hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm):

Telephone: 0300 124 5909

Outside these hours:

• Call NHS 111 for urgent medical advice.
• Call 999 immediately if you are seriously unwell or experiencing a medical emergency.

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Further Information

If you have any questions about carbon dioxide retention or your oxygen therapy, please contact the Community Respiratory Specialist Team.

Telephone: 0300 124 5909

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm