Relationship between carbon monoxide level and daytime sleepiness in individuals aged 18–45

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) can cause life-threatening accidents, reduced work efficiency, and impairments in psychosocial functions. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the relationship between carbon monoxide (CO) levels in the expiratory air and EDS in individuals aged 18–45 years. Methods A total of 280 patients who met the eligibility criteria were included in the study. The main dependent variable was daytime sleepiness, and the main independent variable was the level of CO in the expiratory air. Results The results indicated that being a woman, being a student, living alone at home, being exposed to cigarette smoke in the home environment, and having high CO levels in the expiratory air increased the risk of EDS. Discussion This study shows that high CO levels in breath increase the risk of EDS. Addressing smoking and related risk factors is crucial for public health, reducing accidents and functional impairments in daily life..