Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms And How To Protect Yourself

Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can be difficult to detect, yet can result in death if exposure is high. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that is released by fire, exhaust from cars and trucks, industrial fumes, or faulty stoves or heaters. Concentrations of carbon monoxide gas may be found in basements, mines, or sewers.

This gas is poisonous if inhaled and is a leading cause of accidental poisoning in the United States. CO gas prevents blood from carrying oxygen to the tissues of the body and this can result in severe illness and death. It is important for everyone to make themselves familiar with the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms

Symptoms may be vague early on, with the first signs being the presence of a headache or light-headedness. If the exposure to the gas continues, symptoms will progress to include nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, pounding of the heart, weakness, dizziness, or fainting. The skin may appear pinker or have a "cherry red" appearance.

If the person is exposed to high levels of CO, it can result in loss of consciousness and death. If a person is intoxicated or asleep when exposed to CO gas, they can die before any symptoms are noticed

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Diagnosis And Treatments

Observation of the aforementioned symptoms should prompt an immediate evacuation from the location to limit exposure to the gas. An evaluation by a physician may include blood analysis for oxygen and CO levels.

Treatment - Preventing CO poisoning in the home can be accomplished by checking furnaces, fireplaces, heaters, and stoves often to assure they are working properly and by installing a CO detector in the home.

If carbon monoxide poisoning has already occurred, immediately move the person away from the source of the gas and contact emergency medical personnel. Continued treatment will include giving the person pure oxygen through an oxygen mask. If the victim is not breathing, artificial respiration may be necessary. If discovered early, full recovery is expected. However, severe cases may lead to complications involving the nervous system, other systems, or even death.