About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning occurs when individuals inhale high levels of CO gas, leading to harmful effects on the body. Carbon monoxide affects the body as follows:
- Hemoglobin is the molecule in the blood that carries oxygen to the tissues of the body. Inhaled CO attaches to hemoglobin in the blood, and blocks the hemoglobin from being able to carry oxygen.
- CO attaches more strongly to hemoglobin than oxygen, and the tissues of the body are then starved of oxygen.
- CO also interferes with the function of cells of tissues leading to inflammation and chemical imbalances that can cause the cells to die.
Risk Factors include:
- Exposure to faulty or poorly maintained fuel-burning appliances (e.g., furnaces, space heaters, water heaters or running cars) in homes or workplaces.
- Living in areas with higher levels of air pollution.
- Age: Infants, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are more susceptible to CO poisoning.
- Poor ventilation in small or enclosed spaces where fuel-burning appliances or cars are used (e.g., closed garages, unventilated rooms).
- Smoking tobacco or using other substances that can increase blood levels or carbon monoxide.
- Neglecting regular maintenance and inspection of fuel-burning appliances.
It is important to note that these risk factors can vary depending on individual circumstances. To reduce the risk of CO poisoning, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation, regular maintenance of appliances, and adherence to safety guidelines. If you suspect CO poisoning, seek immediate medical attention immediately.
Common early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- It is important to know that because they are smaller, sometimes pets in the house can show signs of poisoning before the people in the house have symptoms.
As the severity of carbon monoxide poisoning progresses or if the exposure levels are higher, additional symptoms may occur. These can include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of muscle control
In some cases, long-term effects can also occur, including:
- General fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Memory loss
- Insomnia
- Dementia
It is important to note that exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can be life-threatening and may result in death. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, seek immediate medical attention.
To diagnose carbon monoxide poisoning, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Blood tests: Your doctor will draw blood to determine your levels of oxygen and carboxyhemoglobin (carbon monoxide attached to hemoglobin).
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test evaluates symptoms of chest pain or an irregular heartbeat.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the brain: These tests may be needed in people with neurological symptoms.
- Monitoring of the baby in pregnant women: The baby may need to be monitored by placing an external monitor on the belly to measure the baby’s heart rate over time.
To determine the stage or severity of carbon monoxide poisoning, additional examinations, tests, and procedures may be performed:
- Fingerstick blood sugar test: This test helps exclude other causes of changes in behavior or level of consciousness when the diagnosis is not clear.
- Alcohol and toxicology screen: This test helps exclude other causes of changes in behavior or level of consciousness as well.
- CT scan of the brain or spinal tap: These tests may be needed to further investigate changes in behavior or level of consciousness.
- Measurement of heart enzymes: In severe cases, an EKG and measurement of these substances can check for injury to the heart.
- Chest X-ray: Recommended for seriously poisoned patients, especially those with loss of consciousness or cardiopulmonary signs and symptoms.
Remember, these are general guidelines. The specific examinations, tests, and procedures may vary depending on your individual situation. It's important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning are as follows:
- Remove the source of exposure: The first step is to immediately get out of the environment with a high carbon monoxide level to prevent further exposure.
- Administer oxygen therapy: Oxygen therapy is crucial in treating carbon monoxide poisoning. High-flow oxygen through a special mask is preferred to prevent inhalation of the gas that was exhaled. This helps to increase the oxygen levels in the blood and replace carbon monoxide with oxygen.
- Monitoring and supportive care: Patients should be taken to an emergency department for close monitoring and observation. If symptoms disappear after several hours of oxygen treatment and physical exams and blood tests are normal, patients may be able to go home with a follow-up visit scheduled.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT): In severe cases, patients may be treated in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen at a higher pressure, which allows oxygen to dissolve into the bloodstream, and to remove carbon monoxide from the body.
Things you can do to lower your risk:
- Avoid exposure to carbon monoxide by ensuring proper ventilation and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances.
- Do not smoke.
Specific treatment may vary based upon the healthcare professional’s assessment of individual faactors.