Definition:
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a condition resulting from exposure to a colorless, odorless, tasteless, yet potentially fatal gas known as carbon monixde.
Diagnosis:
If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, the most common way of confirming the diagnosis is by performing a blood test to check carbon monoxide levels in the patient's blood.
Treatment:
To treat carbon monoxide treatment, the carbon monoxide must first be replaced in the patient's blood with oxygen. This is done by breathing pure oxygen through a mask or ventilator. In some cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, in which the body is placed in a full-body pressurized chamber, may be required.
Symptoms and Signs:
Dull headaches are usually the earliest and most common symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning. Other signs include: dizziness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, confusion, impaired judgment, irritability, and loss of cosciousness.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a very serious condition and can be potentially fatal, especially among individuals who may be sleeping or intoxicated at the time of exposure to carbon monoxide fumes.
Causes:
Carbon monoxide poisoning results when an individual inhales large amounts of carbon monoxide fumes. This odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas is produced by furnaces, heaters, charcoal grills, fireplaces, portable generators, car engines, and other common everyday items. However, the amount of carbon monoxide produced by these sources does not usually reach toxic levels. Poisoning can possibly occur when an appliance malfunction within an enclosed area, causing a buildup of dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide.
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