What does carbon dioxide anesthesia mean?

Respiratory failure reduces the inhalation of oxygen-rich air and the exhalation of “stale” air containing carbon dioxide. This results in oxygen deprivation (decreased oxygen saturation) and an accumulation of carbon dioxide (hypercapnia). The lack of oxygen is experienced as “air hunger,” while the buildup of carbon dioxide leads to fatigue, drowsiness, and even loss of consciousness. Loss of consciousness caused by an excessive buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood is referred to as “carbon dioxide narcosis.” This term describes a sleep-like state that occurs in cases of severe respiratory failure and a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood.