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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States. Called “The Silent Killer,” carbon monoxide kills more than two thousand people each year.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often resemble the flu and can go undetected. They include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Impaired judgment
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Hallucinations
  • Mental agitation or anger
  • Abdominal pain
  • Visual changes
  • Fainting
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty remembering things
  • Difficulty walking

Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can cause brain damage and even death. Even with immediate treatment, some people may develop long-term brain damage that cannot be corrected.

Treatment for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning is high doses of oxygen administered via face mask. The patients blood will be monitored until carbon monoxide levels in the blood have dropped to safe levels. In severe poisoning, an oxygen pressure chamber may be used.

Source: Charles A Cole, “Carbon Monoxide Poisoning,” eMedicineHealth.com, August 10, 2005.

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