Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test in New Mexico

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 New Mexico, part of Southwest, 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 New Mexico

Order online, choose a certified collection site in New Mexico, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. With long gaps between communities that reward planning a lab visit ahead of time, 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 New Mexico

All testing in New Mexico →   Full Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test guide →