Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause death or long-term disabilities. It has no color or smell and can cause headaches, confusion, and organ failure. Treatment involves administering pure oxygen in a hospital setting. Prevention includes installing detectors and proper ventilation in enclosed spaces. Those who work with engines are at high risk and should have monitors and proper ventilation.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a medical condition caused by inhaling carbon monoxide gas. People can die from this condition or experience long-term disabilities caused by damage to the brain and other organs. Causes may include improperly vented equipment as well as occupational exposure and treatment is the administration of pure oxygen to the patient. Treatment is usually provided in a hospital setting.
This gas has no color or smell, making it impossible for people to detect it. People who inhale carbon monoxide experience a shift of oxygen in the body. The higher the carbon monoxide concentrations, the faster this occurs. When carbon monoxide poisoning sets in and cells die, people can experience headaches, confusion, depression, dizziness, and chest pains. Cells can begin to die and patients can experience organ failure. The introduction of pure oxygen will allow the patient to recover, although it cannot reverse any brain damage caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.
Chronic carbon monoxide poisoning occurs slowly over time. People can feel depressed, experience memory loss, and experience behavioral changes due to slow incremental damage. In the acute version of this condition, exposure to high volumes of carbon monoxide, such as in an enclosed area with a running engine, causes a rapid onset of organ damage. The patient will fall into a coma and die.
Preventing carbon monoxide poisoning requires installing detectors to identify dangerous levels of the gas and taking steps to limit carbon monoxide in enclosed areas. Detectors are available from several sources and can be plugged directly into wall outlets. They warn with sounds and lights when dangerous conditions are present and can wake people up if there is a dangerously high level of carbon monoxide in the home. It’s also important to vent appliances properly, keep vents clean and clear, and make sure appliances are regularly maintained so they burn fuel as efficiently as possible.
Ventilation in spaces where carbon dioxide is produced is essential. Maintaining a constant airflow in the room will keep carbon monoxide levels down and make the space safer to work in. People such as mechanics and other people who work with petrol and diesel engines are at high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in the winter months, when they may be tempted to work indoors due to the cold and rain. It is important to have monitors installed in work spaces and to have a proper ventilation system for safety.
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