Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious medical condition that occurs when a person breathes in too much carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be found in the air we breathe. It is produced when fuels such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil, and wood are burned. When these fuels are not burned completely, CO can be created. Inhaling too much CO can be deadly.
What Are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary from person to person, but usually include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and chest pains. Other symptoms may include tiredness, shortness of breath, and blurred vision. In severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to coma and even death.
Who Is at Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Anyone can be at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, but certain groups are more vulnerable than others. These include pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and people with heart or lung conditions. It’s also important to be aware that carbon monoxide poisoning can occur even in well-ventilated areas. High levels of CO can occur in enclosed spaces, such as boats, garages, and homes with poor ventilation.
What Causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide poisoning is usually caused by faulty appliances or poor ventilation. Common sources of CO include gas stoves, gas-powered hot water heaters, gas-powered furnaces, and even cars. If an appliance is not functioning properly, it can leak carbon monoxide into the air. If there is not enough ventilation in a space, the CO can build up to dangerous levels.
How Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Diagnosed?
If you suspect that you or someone you know has been exposed to carbon monoxide, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor can diagnose carbon monoxide poisoning with a blood test. The test measures the level of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood, which is the compound formed when carbon monoxide binds to the hemoglobin in red blood cells.
How Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treated?
If the diagnosis is confirmed, the person should be moved to a location where there is plenty of fresh air, such as outside or in another room with open windows and doors. The affected person should also be taken to a hospital for treatment. Treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning usually involves breathing in pure oxygen, which helps to flush the CO from the body. Medication may also be given to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
How Can Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Be Prevented?
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s important to ensure that all fuel-burning appliances are working properly and that they are regularly inspected and serviced. It’s also important to make sure that there is proper ventilation in any enclosed space where fuel is burned. Carbon monoxide detectors can also be installed in homes and other buildings to alert people of potentially dangerous levels of CO.
Key Takeaways
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious medical condition that occurs when a person breathes in too much carbon monoxide. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and chest pains. Anyone can be at risk, but certain groups are more vulnerable than others. Carbon monoxide poisoning is usually caused by faulty appliances or poor ventilation. The diagnosis is confirmed with a blood test and treatment involves breathing in pure oxygen. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s important to inspect and service fuel-burning appliances, ensure proper ventilation, and install carbon monoxide detectors.