Health's Book

Definition

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that causes thousands of deaths each year in North America. Breathing in carbon monoxide is very dangerous. It is the leading cause of poisoning death in the United States.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Symptoms

When you breathe in carbon monoxide, the poison replaces the oxygen in your bloodstream. Your heart, brain, and body will become starved of oxygen.

Symptoms vary from person to person. Those at high risk include young children, the elderly, persons with lung or heart disease, people at high altitudes, and smokers. Carbon monoxide can harm a fetus (unborn baby still in the womb).

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
* Headache
* Hyperactivity
* Impaired judgment
* Irritability
* Low blood pressure
* Muscle weakness
* Rapid or abnormal heart beat
* Shock
* Nausea and vomiting
* Unconsciousness