Access myPennMedicine For Patients and Visitors. Patient Information. Conditions Treated A-Z. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning? Definition Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that causes thousands of deaths each year in North America. Poisonous Ingredient Carbon monoxide is a chemical produced from the incomplete burning of natural gas or other products containing carbon. Where Found The following items may produce carbon monoxide: Anything that burns coal, gasoline, kerosene, oil, propane, or wood Automobile engines Charcoal grills charcoal should never be burned indoors Indoor and portable heating systems Portable propane heaters Stoves indoor and camp stoves Water heaters that use natural gas Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.
Symptoms When you breathe in carbon monoxide, the poison replaces the oxygen in your bloodstream. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include: Breathing problems, including no breathing, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing Chest pain may occur suddenly in people with angina Coma Confusion Convulsions Dizziness Drowsiness Fainting Fatigue General weakness and achiness Headache Hyperactivity Impaired judgment Irritability Low blood pressure Muscle weakness Rapid or abnormal heartbeat Shock Nausea and vomiting Unconsciousness Animals can also be poisoned by carbon monoxide.
Home Care If the person breathed in the poison, immediately move him or her to fresh air. Before Calling Emergency The following information is helpful for emergency assistance: Person's age, weight, and condition for example, is the person awake or alert? How long they may have been exposed to the carbon monoxide, if known However, DO NOT delay calling for help if this information is not immediately available.
Poison Control Your local poison control center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline from anywhere in the United States. What to Expect at the Emergency Room The health care provider will measure and monitor the person's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The person may receive: Airway support, including oxygen, breathing tube through the mouth intubation , and breathing machine ventilator Blood and urine tests Chest x-ray ECG electrocardiogram, or heart tracing Fluids through a vein intravenous or IV Hyperbaric oxygen therapy high-pressure oxygen given in a special chamber Medicines to treat symptoms Outlook Prognosis Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause death.
Editorial team. Identifying CO poisoning can be difficult because the symptoms are similar to the flu. For most people, the first signs of exposure include mild headache and breathlessness with moderate exercise. Continued exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea.
Eventually symptoms may progress to confusion, irritability, impaired judgment and coordination, and loss of consciousness. Minnesota state law MN Statute F. Also, the elderly and young children are at a greater risk for CO poisoning than adults. Individuals engaging in strenuous activity have also been found to be at greater risk. Although CO poisoning cases are higher during the winter months, there are situations where people can be exposed to high levels of CO during the summer.
Vehicles including boats produce carbon monoxide. Devices such as camp stoves, barbecue grills and non-electric heaters are commonly used during recreational activities and also are sources of CO.
The CDC has noted that CO poisoning cases have resulted from the use of power generators during power outages. Portable generators are capable of producing more carbon monoxide than modern cars and can kill people in a short amount of time. It is recommended that users place generators at least 25 feet away from and downwind of a house.
Be sure that there are no vents or openings near the generator that would allow exhaust to enter into your home. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Section Navigation. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Frequently Asked Questions. Minus Related Pages. There are some easy steps you can take to reduce your risk.
One of the most important is to see a doctor right away if you think you have symptoms. Safe use of fuel-burning tools and appliances. Author: Healthwise Staff. Medical Review: Anne C. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.
Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. British Columbia Specific Information Carbon monoxide CO is known as the silent killer because it cannot be seen or smelled. Top of the page. Topic Overview What is carbon monoxide poisoning?
What causes carbon monoxide poisoning? Trouble comes when: Cars, trucks, or other engines are left running in enclosed spaces, such as garages. Carbon monoxide can build up in a garage and leak back into the house. Even sitting in an idling car in an open garage can be dangerous. A motorboat or jet ski that is idling or working at a slow speed can be dangerous to a swimmer or someone being pulled. Fuel-burning appliances are not installed or used properly.
Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can build up inside houses and other buildings. Fuel-burning heating systems and appliances are used during cold weather, when doors and windows are closed. Chimneys in older buildings become blocked and release fumes into the homes or offices. Newer houses that are well insulated and tightly sealed can trap carbon monoxide inside.
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