CO also reacts, chemically, with other proteins and enzymes in the blood which can lead to damage to the brain, heart and nervous system.

In this respect, the symptoms are very similar to Hypoxia. This has a direct affect on the performance of those parts of our physiology that rely on Oxygen for proper functioning. When inhaled CO is absorbed easily into the bloodstream where it attaches itself to haemoglobin with an affinity over 200 times that of Oxygen. For example, in the UK alone: 50 people die, 200 people are hospitalised and 4,000 admitted to Accident & Emergency units annually, due to CO poisoning. Known as the “silent killer”, poisoning from CO is responsible for more than 400 deaths per annum in the USA and a similar number in Europe these are typically in industrial and domestic situations. Prolonged and repeat exposures at lower concentrations can lead to the same conclusions.ĬO is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas, and is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing materials. If the detector sounds leave your home immediately and call 911.ĭo seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous.ĭon't use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window.ĭon't run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.ĭon't burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented.Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas and exposure can quickly lead to short-term symptoms, long-term health issues, and even death. Here is a list of Dos and Don’ts:ĭo have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.ĭo install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. There are many preventive measures you can take to prevent CO poisoning in your home. How can carbon monoxide exposure be prevented? People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms. Unless suspected, CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses. High levels of CO inhalation can cause loss of consciousness and death. What are the symptoms of CO poisoning?Īccording to CDC, the most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. If you body is deprived of too much oxygen it can result in dizziness, nausea, confusion, tissue damage and even death. This means if there is a high concentration of CO in the air your body may place CO into your blood instead of oxygen. Red blood cells pick up CO faster than they pick up Oxygen. If CO builds up in an enclosed space like a room, a home, or a garage people and animals can get poisoned by the gas.

Where does CO come from?ĬO is found in combustion fumes such as those produced by cars, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, generators, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves.

It is also reported that each year more than 20,000 Americans visit the emergency room and more than 4,000 Americans are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning each year.

Carbon monoxide symptoms