Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can poison the blood stream and cause serious illness or even death. Too much carbon monoxide in the air causes the body to replace the oxygen in red blood cells with the carbon monoxide. Knowing the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it can save your life.
Signs And Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
It can occur from both overexposure in a large amount at one time and exposure in small amounts over a period of time. You may have exposure and not know for several days but still have long term effects. Stay alert for signs and symptoms of this type of poisoning including a dull headache, weakness, dizziness, vomiting, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness.
If you think you have exposure to carbon monoxide, seek medical treatment. In most cases, medical treatment involves hyperbaric oxygen therapy, where the patient breaths pure oxygen in a chamber with pressure higher than normal to replace the carbon monoxide with oxygen.
Prevention
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by installing monitors in your home and work place. Install monitors lower to the floor for faster detection and do not ignore alarms detecting carbon monoxide. Never run a vehicle in a garage because exhaust needs plenty of air circulation. Check heating systems annually and other appliances annually for leaks and ensure proper ventilation exists for stoves and heaters. Protect yourself and your family by staying aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source(s): Mayo Clinic “Carbon Monoxide Poisoning” | Photo
