What Are the Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a dangerous medical emergency that can cause death. It is produced when fuels are not burned completely. The odorless, colorless gas is toxic. It can be caused by a variety of sources. These include improperly ventilated appliances, exhausts from running cars, and incomplete burning of charcoal and other carbon products.

People who get exposed to high levels of CO can die in just five minutes. If you suspect that your home or workplace may have CO in it, get help immediately. You should also evacuate your home. There are carbon monoxide alarms that can be purchased to alert you of unsafe CO levels in your home.

Some people who become poisoned with CO have symptoms that are similar to the flu. They may experience fever, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Others have more severe symptoms. For example, those who develop CO poisoning may have breathing difficulties and a lack of coordination.

In addition to these physical effects, carbon monoxide can lead to permanent damage to the brain. Symptoms of CO exposure can be hard to distinguish from the flu, so seek immediate medical attention.

During treatment for CO poisoning, you will likely receive a mask that will deliver 100% oxygen to your nose and mouth. This will help your body speed up the production of oxygen-carrying proteins in your red blood cells. As your symptoms improve, you will start to feel better. However, it is important to remember that recovery can take time.

Many people who develop a CO symptom, such as a loss of consciousness, will have relapses over the course of several weeks. Typically, this will result in a headache and memory problems.

When you experience the early signs of CO poisoning, you should contact the fire department and the gas company. Your heating contractor should be contacted as well. Those who are pregnant should not use a portable gas heater. Also, infants and young children have a higher risk of developing CO poisoning.

Depending on the level of exposure, the signs of CO poisoning can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms have a good chance of recovery. However, if you are in a situation where you are unable to escape, your chances of survival are significantly decreased.

CO is a common household substance. Common household appliances such as a furnace, boiler, or stove can generate carbon monoxide. But even if you do not have any of these appliances, you can still be poisoned. Portable devices, such as handheld radios, cell phones, and iPods, may also be contaminated. Until these appliances are serviced by an engineer, they should be avoided.

It is advisable to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially if you have a fireplace, space heater, or any other gas appliance. Even if you have no carbon monoxide exposure, if you live in an older building, you should consider getting a detector.

If you have recently become ill, it is a good idea to get yourself outdoors. You should always seek medical attention for any health problem.