Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test in Washington DC
This page explains the carbon monoxide, blood test, what it measures, and how to arrange it. A carbon monoxide (CO) blood test measures how much CO is attached to hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in your blood. It is ordered when someone has symptoms like headache, dizziness, or confusion that might be from smoke, car exhaust, or faulty heaters, or to check exposure in certain jobs. Across Washington DC, part of Mid-Atlantic, the carbon monoxide, blood test can be ordered directly and collected at a certified site — no referral required.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- General Wellness
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $179
- Referral
- Not required
A carbon monoxide (CO) blood test measures how much CO is attached to hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in your blood. It is ordered when someone has symptoms like headache, dizziness, or confusion that might be from smoke, car exhaust, or faulty heaters, or to check exposure in certain jobs.
What it measures
- Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) — The percentage of hemoglobin carrying carbon monoxide instead of oxygen.
- Hemoglobin (Hb) — The total amount of oxygen-carrying protein in your blood.
- Oxygen saturation (SaO2) — How much oxygen is attached to hemoglobin, often measured alongside COHb.
- Methemoglobin (MetHb) — A form of hemoglobin that cannot carry oxygen; sometimes checked to rule out other causes.
Who it is for
A doctor may order this test if you have unexplained symptoms of CO exposure, such as headache, nausea, or confusion, especially if others in the same building have similar symptoms. It is also used for people who work with combustion engines, furnaces, or in firefighting.
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation is needed. Tell your doctor if you smoke, because smoking can raise your baseline CO level.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as a percentage of carboxyhemoglobin. Normal levels are usually low, but interpretation depends on whether you smoke and your symptoms. Only a clinician can interpret your results in context; this information is not medical advice.
Requesting the Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test in Washington DC
Order online, choose a certified collection site in Washington DC, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. With a continuous band of cities and boroughs where a collection lab is seldom far away, it pays to schedule your collection in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test hurt?
It uses a standard blood draw from a vein, which feels like a quick pinch.
How long do results take?
Most results are ready in 1 to 3 business days.
Can I eat before the test?
Yes, no fasting is required.
Is my result kept private?
Yes, your results are confidential and shared only with you and your healthcare team.
Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test by city in Washington DC
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