From the Research
Low carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, or hypocapnia, are typically treated by addressing the underlying cause, which is most commonly hyperventilation, and the primary treatment involves controlled breathing techniques to normalize respiration rate, as supported by the most recent study 1. The treatment approach for low CO2 levels involves several strategies, including:
- Controlled breathing techniques to normalize respiration rate
- Breathing into a paper bag (rebreathing technique) to increase CO2 levels by rebreathing exhaled CO2
- Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines (like lorazepam 0.5-1mg), for immediate relief of anxiety-related hyperventilation, along with cognitive behavioral therapy for long-term management
- Adjusting ventilator settings to decrease respiratory rate or tidal volume if hypocapnia is caused by mechanical ventilation in hospital settings
- Treating the underlying condition, such as metabolic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis, or kidney disease, for metabolic causes of low CO2
- Supplemental oxygen and close monitoring of blood gases for severe symptomatic cases Low CO2 levels are concerning because they can lead to respiratory alkalosis, causing symptoms like lightheadedness, numbness in extremities, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness due to cerebral vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow to the brain, as highlighted in the study 1. It is essential to prioritize the treatment of underlying causes and to monitor patients closely to prevent complications, as decreased CO2 levels have been associated with increased mortality risk, particularly in COVID-19 patients, as shown in the study 1.