Carbonarcosis refers to a state of drowsiness linked to a lack of oxygen. Definition, causes, symptoms and treatments with our sleep expert.
Definition: what is carbonarcosis?
Carbonarcosis is a state of drowsiness which leads to coma and is life-threatening. It results froman overload of carbon dioxide in the blood (hypercapnia) and occurs in some patients with respiratory disease such as severe bronchitis, severe dyspnoea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
What are the possible causes of carbonarcosis?
“Carbonarcosis is an obsolete term that corresponded to drowsiness (narcosis) related to a lack of oxygen in particular in respiratory insufficiency and was so called because this hypoxia was associated with an increase in carbon dioxide in the blood (CO2) and respiratory acidosis (more acidic blood linked to the increase in CO2)”, informs Dr. Marc Rey. In some cases, carbonarcosis is deliberately induced to protect the pulmonary alveoli. We speak in this case ofintentional permissive hypercapnia.
What are the symptoms of carbonarcosis?
Carbonarcosis results in poor adaptation of ventilation to the needs of the body. The subject experiences:
- First, difficulty in breathing
- Then, a sudden, involuntary urge to sleep.
Who is most at risk of getting carbonarcosis?
People most at risk of carbonarcosis are those with a respiratory condition such assevere bronchitis, severe dyspnea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What treatment in case of carbonarcosis?
The treatment of carbonarcosis is based, in the first place, on therespiratory support. At the same time, it is essential treat respiratory failure cause of carbonarcosis. The treatment of dyspnea is based onoxygen therapy. In case of COPD, inhaled bronchodilators will be offered.
Thanks to Dr. Marc Rey, sleep neurologist, president of the National Institute of Sleep and Vigilance (INSV)