ABG Medical Abbreviation: Definition and Results

What Does ABG Mean in Medical Terms?

ABG stands for Arterial Blood Gas. It is a type of test that looks at the gases in your blood. Unlike regular blood tests taken from a vein, ABG is measured from an artery. This makes it more accurate in showing how well your lungs move oxygen into your blood and remove carbon dioxide.

Doctors use ABG tests to quickly check how well your lungs and body are working together. The results give important information about breathing, blood pH balance, and how the body handles oxygen and carbon dioxide. This test often helps in urgent situations, where fast answers are needed for safe care.

What Is an ABG Test?

Purpose of the ABG Test

An ABG test measures:

• Oxygen levels (PaO₂) - how much oxygen is in your blood.
• Carbon dioxide levels (PaCO₂) - how much waste gas is being removed.
• Blood pH - whether your blood is too acidic or too alkaline.
• Bicarbonate (HCO₃) - a chemical that helps balance acids and bases.

When Doctors Recommend It

Doctors may suggest an ABG test if you have:

• Sudden or ongoing breathing problems.
• Severe asthma or lung disease.
• Chest pain or suspected heart problems.
• A need for oxygen therapy or ventilator support in hospital or ICU settings.

How Is an ABG Test Done?

Blood for an ABG test is taken from an artery, most often from your wrist. A healthcare professional cleans the skin, inserts a small needle, and draws the sample. Because arteries are deeper and more sensitive than veins, the process can be a bit more uncomfortable than a standard blood draw.

ABG Results: Normal vs Abnormal

Normal ABG Values

Typical values are:

• pH: 7.35-7.45
• PaO₂ (oxygen): 75-100 mmHg
• PaCO₂ (carbon dioxide): 35-45 mmHg
• HCO₃ (bicarbonate): 22-26 mEq/L
• O₂ saturation: 95-100%

These numbers can vary slightly depending on the lab and your health.

What Abnormal Results May Indicate

Abnormal results can show different health problems:

• Low oxygen: may mean lung disease, blocked airways, or poor blood circulation.
• High oxygen: sometimes seen if oxygen therapy is too strong.
• Acid-base imbalance:
  • Acidosis - blood too acidic, often linked to breathing or metabolic issues.
  • Alkalosis - blood too alkaline, which may also be due to breathing or metabolic problems.

When to Talk to a Doctor

If you receive ABG results, a doctor or specialist will explain what they mean. It’s important not to interpret them on your own, since small changes can mean different things depending on your health. Always discuss results with a healthcare provider, especially if you have breathing issues, chronic lung conditions, or frequent chest discomfort.

Related Medical Abbreviations

When reading ABG reports, you may also see:

• PaO₂ - partial pressure of oxygen.
• PaCO₂- partial pressure of carbon dioxide.
• SpO₂ - oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximeter.
• SaO₂ - oxygen saturation measured from arterial blood.