Member-only story
Protecting Yourself and Your Family From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The Treatment for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning — What You Need to Know
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an inodorous and colorless gas that claims the lives of hundreds of people every year. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately, as CO poisoning can be lethal.
To protect yourself and your family from CO poisoning, place carbon monoxide detectors in your home and make sure they are properly maintained.
How does Carbon Monoxide Enter the Body?
CO enters the body only through inhalation. Once inhaled, CO quickly attaches to hemoglobin in red blood cells to form carboxyhemoglobin. This process prevents oxygen from binding with hemoglobin and being transported to tissues throughout the body, leading to tissue hypoxia.
What are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
CO causes non-specific symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, malaise, lightheadedness, chest pain, tachycardia, hypertension, hypotension, and confusion. A specific index of…
