Have your doctor go through each series of numbers individually, explaining what they test for and what your specific results may mean. Ask your doctor to compare previous results with the new ones to better judge where you are physically.

If the pH level is below 7. 38, then you may have more acidic blood from conditions such as airway obstruction, COPD, asthma, sleep disordered breathing, or neuromuscular impairment. [3] X Research source If the pH level is above 7. 45, you may have a alkalosis, which could indicate stimulation of the central nervous system, lung disease, severe anemia, drug use, or pregnancy.

An HCO3 level is below 24 mEq/L indicates metabolic acidosis. It may be the result of conditions including diarrhea, liver failure and kidney disease. An HCO3 level above 26 mEq/L indicates metabolic alkalosis. This may be the result of dehydration, vomiting, and anorexia.

Respiratory alkalosis is present if the PaCO2 number is below 35 mmHg. This means there is too little carbon dioxide in the blood. It can signal kidney failure, shock, diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperventilation, pain, or anxiety. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Respiratory acidosis is present if the PaCO2 number is above 45 mmHg. This means that there is too much carbon dioxide in the blood. This can be a sign of chronic vomiting, low blood potassium, COPD, or pneumonia.

Anemia Asthma Congenital heart defects COPD or emphysema Strained abdominal muscles Collapsed lung Pulmonary edema or embolism Sleep apnea

Blood thinners, including aspirin Illicit drugs Tobacco or secondhand smoke Tetracycline (antibiotics)[8] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source Steroids Diuretics

Respiratory alkalosis is commonly associated with people going to mountainous areas. Hyperventilation is especially likely when ascent is too rapid and there hasn’t been enough time to acclimate. [10] X Research source

Fever Hyperventilation Prior drug overdose Head or neck injury Respiratory disorders such as asthma and COPD Congestive heart failure Kidney failure Diabetes Blood disorders such as hemophilia