Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when CO builds up in your bloodstream. When too much carbon monoxide is in the air, your body replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells with carbon monoxide. This can lead to serious tissue damage, or even death.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas produced by burning gasoline, wood, propane, charcoal or other fuel. Improperly ventilated appliances and engines, particularly in a tightly sealed or enclosed space, may allow CO to accumulate to dangerous levels.
If you think you or someone you’re with may have the poisoning, get into fresh air and seek emergency medical care.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of this poisoning may include:
- Dull headache
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Loss of consciousness
CO poisoning can be particularly dangerous for people who are sleeping or intoxicated. People may have irreversible brain damage or even die before anyone realizes there’s a problem.
Long-term complications may include chronic fatigue, trouble with memory, and movement problems
When to see a doctor
The warning signs of poisoning can be subtle. But the condition is a life-threatening medical emergency. If you think you or someone you’re with may have CO poisoning, get into fresh air and seek emergency medical care.
Efforts to prevent poisoning include carbon monoxide detectors, proper venting of gas appliances, keeping chimneys clean, and keeping exhaust systems of vehicles in good repair. Treatment of poisoning generally consists of giving 100% oxygen along with supportive care. This should generally be carried out until symptoms are no longer present and the HbCO level is less than 3%/10%
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