What is carbon monoxide poisoning?
Carbon monoxide poisoning happens when a person breathes in carbon monoxide gas, which can quickly become dangerous. This gas builds up in the blood and reduces how much oxygen your organs receive. Because oxygen cannot move through the body normally, vital organs like the brain and heart can be affected.
This condition is a medical emergency and requires immediate care. Even short exposure in a closed space can be harmful.
Common causes include:
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels do not burn completely. Exposure often happens when gas, wood, coal, or gasoline-powered devices are used in unsafe or poorly ventilated areas.
- Malfunctioning or poorly vented heating systems
- Running vehicles in enclosed spaces like garages
- Gas-powered generators used indoors or too close to a home
- Faulty stoves, furnaces, or water heaters
- Indoor use of grills, fireplaces, or fuel-burning equipment
- Blocked chimneys or poor ventilation
Certain groups, including young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with heart or lung conditions, are more likely to experience severe effects.
Symptoms
Carbon monoxide exposure can be difficult to recognize because early symptoms often feel like common illnesses.
Symptoms may include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness or fatigue
- Chest pain or fast heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion or trouble thinking clearly
- Blurred vision or coordination problems
- Fainting, seizures, or loss of consciousness in severe cases
How is it diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose carbon monoxide poisoning based on symptoms and possible exposure. Because treatment is urgent, care often begins before all test results are confirmed.
A blood test can measure carbon monoxide levels in the bloodstream. Providers may also evaluate oxygen levels and check how well the heart, brain, and lungs are working. Additional tests such as heart monitoring or imaging studies may be used depending on symptoms.
How is it treated?
The first step in treatment is removing the person from the source of exposure and getting them into fresh air right away. Emergency medical services should be contacted immediately.
Treatment may include:
- High-flow oxygen therapy to help clear carbon monoxide from the blood
- Advanced oxygen treatment in a pressurized chamber for serious cases
- Supportive care, including monitoring of heart and brain function
- CPR if breathing or heartbeat has stopped
Recovery depends on how long exposure lasted and how quickly treatment begins. Early care can significantly improve outcomes.
