What does hypoventilation cause?

Hypoventilation, also known as respiratory depression, is a condition where the body's ventilation is not sufficient to maintain normal levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. This can lead to a number of serious health consequences. The primary effects of hypoventilation include: 1. Hypercapnia: An increased concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, which can result from the inadequate removal of CO2 by the lungs. 2. Respiratory Acidosis: A condition where the blood becomes more acidic due to the increased levels of CO2, which forms carbonic acid when dissolved in blood. Other potential effects of hypoventilation can include: - Fatigue: As the body's tissues do not receive enough oxygen, this can lead to a general feeling of tiredness or fatigue. - Confusion and Drowsiness: High levels of CO2 can affect the brain and nervous system, potentially causing confusion, drowsiness, or even loss of consciousness in severe cases. - Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Individuals may experience difficulty breathing as the body attempts to compensate for the lack of oxygen. - Headache: Due to the increased pressure of CO2 in the blood vessels, which can cause headaches. - Cardiovascular Issues: The heart may have to work harder to compensate for the lack of oxygen, potentially leading to an increased heart rate or high blood pressure. If hypoventilation is severe or prolonged, it can lead to life-threatening conditions such as respiratory failure or coma.

In medicine, hypoventilation (also known as respiratory depression) occurs when ventilation is inadequate (hypo meaning "below") to perform needed gas exchange. By definition it causes an increased concentration of carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) and respiratory acidosis.