Included with every panel
Baseline labs come free with any panel you build.
Metabolism & organs
Carbon dioxide (CO2) test
Mostly bicarbonate, the blood's main buffer; part of the metabolic panel used to assess acid-base balance. Included with every panel.
At a glance
In about 5 days
Most results are ready in about 5 days. Some specialty markers can take up to 21 days.
Check before your draw
This marker has no preparation tag, but it can still need preparation. Contact us before your draw if you’re not sure.
Walk in at Quest
Your lab order arrives by email. Most Quest locations take walk-ins, so bring it with a photo ID.
What it measures
Measures bicarbonate, a form of carbon dioxide that helps keep the acid level of your blood steady. Your kidneys and lungs work together to keep it in balance.
Why it matters for women
In pregnancy you naturally breathe more deeply, so this level can run a little lower than usual. Repeated vomiting, including severe nausea in pregnancy, can push it up, while long-lasting diarrhea or kidney problems can pull it down.
You might check it if…
- you’ve been vomiting a lot or had ongoing diarrhea
- you take water pills or other medicines that affect fluids
- a doctor is keeping an eye on your kidneys
- you’re pregnant and struggling with severe nausea
What your result may mean
High Carbon dioxide (CO2): what it may mean
High CO2 (bicarbonate) may suggest metabolic alkalosis, when the blood can become less acidic than normal, or it may be the body making up for a breathing problem. Repeated vomiting, including severe nausea in pregnancy, can push it up, and so can water pills (diuretics). Long-term lung conditions can raise it too, because the kidneys may hold on to bicarbonate. Muscle cramps, twitching or weakness can happen, or there may be no symptoms. A clinician may read it with your sodium, potassium and chloride.
Low Carbon dioxide (CO2): what it may mean
Low CO2 (bicarbonate) may suggest metabolic acidosis, when acid can build up in the blood, or the body making up for fast breathing. It can be seen with kidney disease, severe diarrhea or uncontrolled diabetes. In pregnancy you can naturally breathe more deeply, so a slightly lower level may be expected. A blood tube that isn't filled all the way can also lower the reading a little. Fast breathing, tiredness or nausea can appear, depending on what's behind it.
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These notes provide context and do not diagnose a condition. Not yet available in NY, NJ, RI, HI, ND, SD or WV.