How can you know if you have carbon monoxide poisoning?
Carbon monoxide poisoningis a chameleon in the medical world.
Due to its chameleon-like nature, it’s still not an easy task.
Illustration by Jessica Olah for Verywell Health
Headaches and nausea in isolation rarely cause anyone to think of carbon monoxide poisoning as the most likely culprit.
It comes from high levels of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood.
Unfortunately, it is often a postmortem examination that reveals such a bright red coloring.
To be treated successfully, carbon monoxide poisoning must be recognized long before the patient turns bright red.
Damage to the brain is a significant injury incurred by many patients with carbon monoxide poisoning.
Patients can develop neurological complications (difficulty concentrating, memory loss, tremors, trouble speaking, etc.)
at the same time as the carbon monoxide poisoning or at a later time.
Research continues into why this happens and how to identify the potential for long-term symptoms.
There is very little evidence-basedtreatment for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Most options focus on removing the carbon monoxide as quickly as possible.
The carbon monoxide gets stuck in the bloodstream, and it takes up to several hours to remove it.
Anytime carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, call 911.
Don’t wait for help.
Move to fresh air immediately.
Usually, it’s best to go outside while waiting for the ambulance.
When you see the healthcare provider, note that history is more important than symptoms.
Faulty stoves, fireplaces, or wood-burning appliances are usually to blame for carbon monoxide poisoning in the home.
What was going on during that time?
Is it cool weather and some of the family had decided to start the barbecue under the patio?
This information can help confirm that your symptoms are truly resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning.
This ends up starving the internal organs of oxygen.
The heart andbrainin particular require large amounts of oxygen to function properly.
The damage CO does to the body is cumulative, which is why prompt treatment is vital.
Yes, low levels of carbon monoxide poisoning can look similar to other conditions like the flu.
One clue these symptoms may be associated with carbon monoxide is a lack of fever.
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National Health Service (NHS).Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
2015;94(40):e1608.
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Wu P, Juurlink D.Carbon monoxide poisoning.Canadian Medical Association Journal.
