TESTS AND PROCEDURES

Carbon Monoxide (Blood)

By Fisher, Steve 
 | 
September 14, 2017

Carbon Monoxide (Blood)

Does this test have other names?

CO blood test, CO blood gas, arterial blood gas

What is this test?

This test measures the level of carbon monoxide (CO) in your blood.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, and odorless gas made by combustion. Breathing in CO can be fatal because it doesn't allow oxygen to get to your heart and other organs.

This test looks for carboxyhemoglobin. This substance is made in your blood when hemoglobin combines with carbon monoxide instead of oxygen. 

Most deaths from CO result from smoke inhalation. Other sources include heaters that don’t work as they should, kitchen stoves and tools that are not vented correctly, camping stoves, charcoal grills, water heaters, and cars with their engines running in an enclosed space like a garage. All of these can cause CO to spread throughout a building.

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if your healthcare provider thinks you have CO poisoning. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

  • Headache

  • Chest pain

  • Altered mental status and confusion

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Weakness

Severe poisoning can cause nerve system symptoms such as:

  • Seizures

  • Coma

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be hard to recognize in very young children. For example, a child may merely appear fussy and not want to eat.

You may also have this test if you have been in contact with CO. This is especially true if you inhaled smoke during a fire. You may also have this test if you've been near a car that had its engine running in an enclosed space for a long time.

What other tests might I have along with this test?

Your healthcare provider may also order these tests:

  • Toxicology screen

  • Chest X-ray

  • Pregnancy test in women. This is because CO exposure puts the fetus at high risk for problems.

Your provider may also order an MRI scan if you also have symptoms of nervous system problems.

What do my test results mean?

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, the method used for the test, and other things. Your test results may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you. 

Results are given as a percentage or as a decimal. These are the normal ranges for CO levels in the blood:

  • Adults: less than 2.3%, or 0.023

  • Adult smokers: 2.1% to 4.2%, or 0.021 to 0.042

  • Adult heavy smokers (more than 2 packs a day): 8% to 9%

  • Hemolytic anemia: Up to 4%

  • Newborn: greater than 12%

If your levels are higher, you may have CO intoxication or poisoning.

How is this test done?

The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand. 

Does this test pose any risks?

Having a blood test with a needle carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. Afterward, the site may be sore.  

What might affect my test results?

Other factors aren't likely to affect your results.

How do I get ready for this test?

You don't need to prepare for this test. Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illicit drugs you may use. 

Updated:  

September 14, 2017

Sources:  

Arterial blood gases. UpToDate., Carbon monoxide poisoning. UpToDate.

Reviewed By:  

Greco, Frank MD,Sather, Rita, RN