Hi,I am Dr. Andrew Rynne (Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
What Can Be Done To Keep The CO2 Level Down While On Ventilation?
My 68 year old mother has been on & off the vent for mths, she does fine on trach collar til her gases rise, then they have to vent again. Please tell me, is there something the doctors can do for her to keep her CO2 levels down, so she can stay off the vent?
Hi, Thanks for asking. Based on your query, my opinion is as follows. 1. Her oxygen saturation does fall which rises the carbon dioxide. 2. It is dependent on her lung capacity and the exchange across the alveoli. If she requires more oxygen percentage, sometimes through ventilator to keep carbon dioxide down, it is possible, she has some lung problems. 3. X-ray or CT of lung would definitely show some abnormalities. 4. Breathing exercises with spirometry can be helpful. However, until lung disease is completely treated, I am afraid, CO2 level cannot be brought down easily. Hope it helps. Any further queries, happy to help again.
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: Get a consultation booked to know more about aging related medical issues. Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
What Can Be Done To Keep The CO2 Level Down While On Ventilation?
Hi, Thanks for asking. Based on your query, my opinion is as follows. 1. Her oxygen saturation does fall which rises the carbon dioxide. 2. It is dependent on her lung capacity and the exchange across the alveoli. If she requires more oxygen percentage, sometimes through ventilator to keep carbon dioxide down, it is possible, she has some lung problems. 3. X-ray or CT of lung would definitely show some abnormalities. 4. Breathing exercises with spirometry can be helpful. However, until lung disease is completely treated, I am afraid, CO2 level cannot be brought down easily. Hope it helps. Any further queries, happy to help again.