As a respiratory specialist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating conditions related to breathing, I can provide you with a comprehensive overview of the symptoms of hypercapnia. Hypercapnia, also known as hypercarbia, is a condition where there is an excessive amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. This can occur due to various reasons such as lung disease, respiratory depression from medication or other substances, or issues with the respiratory center in the brain. The symptoms of hypercapnia can range from mild to severe and are often related to the level of CO2 in the blood. Early symptoms of hypercapnia may include: - Flushed skin: The skin may appear red or warm due to increased blood flow. - Full pulse: The individual may have a strong and full pulse, indicating increased CO2 levels. - Tachypnea: Rapid breathing can be an early sign as the body tries to expel excess CO2. - Dyspnea: Difficulty in breathing, which may worsen as hypercapnia progresses. - Extrasystoles: Premature or extra heartbeats that can be felt as skipped or irregular beats. - Muscle twitches: Involuntary muscle movements or spasms. - Hand flaps: A sign of severe hypercapnia, where the person may flap their hands as if waving. - Reduced neural activity: This can manifest as confusion or a decrease in the level of consciousness. - Possibly a raised blood pressure: Hypercapnia can cause an increase in blood pressure as a compensatory mechanism. Mild hypercapnia might present with: - Headache: A common symptom that can be indicative of many conditions, including hypercapnia. - Confusion: The individual may have trouble thinking clearly or may be disoriented. - Lethargy: A feeling of tiredness or lack of energy, which can be an early sign of hypercapnia. It's important to note that the symptoms of hypercapnia can vary widely among individuals and can be influenced by the underlying cause and the body's ability to compensate for the increased CO2 levels. If you suspect hypercapnia, it's crucial to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment. read more >>

Symptoms and signs of early hypercapnia include flushed skin, full pulse, tachypnea, dyspnea, extrasystoles, muscle twitches, hand flaps, reduced neural activity, and possibly a raised blood pressure. According to other sources, symptoms of mild hypercapnia might include headache, confusion and lethargy.read more >>