Why do cigarettes have carbon monoxide

CO is present in varying amounts both indoors and outdoors. Car exhaust fumes in particular produce higher concentrations of CO. A poorly calibrated gas stove can lead to a very high concentration of CO. Standards for air quality and the maximum indoor levels for substances such as CO have been set by European law.

The longer the period of exposure, the lower the maximum level. CO is not added to tobacco but is formed when tobacco is burned incompletely. This happens when there is too little oxygen present to convert all of the carbon in the tobacco into harmless carbon dioxide. A person who smokes a pack of cigarettes per day will commonly have a CO level of about 20 parts per million.

A two-pack-a-day smoker may have a level of about 40 parts per million. The good news is that after stopping smoking, the CO level will return to normal within one or two days. Health effects related to CO may vary from person to person.

Click this link for a Free E-Cigarette Ebook. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced from the incomplete burning of virtually any combustible product.

Our free guide can help you get on the right track. Sign up and get yours today. Pathophysiology, clinics, diagnosis and treatment of heart involvement in carbon monoxide poisoning.

Clin Biochem. Carbon monoxide poisoning deaths in the United States, to Am J Emerg Med. Hampson NB. Carboxyhemoglobin: a primer for clinicians. Undersea Hyperb Med. Practice recommendations in the diagnosis, management, and prevention of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clinical guidance for carbon monoxide poisoning. Updated August 29, Recurrent carbon monoxide poisoning from cigarette smoking. Am J Med Sci.

National Cancer Institute. Harms of cigarette smoking and health benefits of quitting. Updated December 19, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

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