What Are The Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas that is highly toxic to humans and animals, sometimes causing death. Here at Black-Haak, we consider carbon monoxide the silent killer because it can go undetected without proper safety initiatives. Thankfully, we can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Understanding the warning signs of poisoning can save the life of someone you love.

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels such as wood, coal, natural gas, and gasoline. It can come from engines, fireplaces, fuel furnaces, and stoves.

When inhaled, carbon monoxide binds to the hemoglobin in red blood cells, preventing the transportation of oxygen through the body. Without oxygen, cells, tissues, and organs can suffer damage. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health complications and eventual death.

What Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide poisoning happens when too much builds in the bloodstream. High levels can lead to brain damage or rapid death, usually within minutes. You must understand the warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning so you can take immediate action and obtain life-saving medical care.

The Early Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Because the initial symptoms can be mistaken for other ailments, like the flu or a stomach bug, paying attention to how you feel is important. Remaining vigilant is especially critical when carbon monoxide exposure is probable.

Headache

Headache is one of the most common symptoms exhibited in someone with carbon monoxide poisoning. The brain is susceptible to oxygen deprivation. Even a minor dip in oxygen can trigger dull headaches. If the carbon monoxide exposure continues, the headache will increase and begin throbbing. These headaches typically do not respond to any pain relievers, especially in the case of ongoing exposure.

Dizziness

Dizziness is another common symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning and is a sensation caused by low brain oxygen. A person may become disoriented or experience balance problems. Depending on the severity of oxygen deprivation, you may experience vertigo-like symptoms where it seems like the room is spinning. Dizziness can become so severe that it leads to a loss of consciousness.

Weakness and Fatigue

Unexplained weakness and fatigue are telltale signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, but they also occur with other serious illnesses, including stroke. You may notice the simplest of tasks seem overwhelming and challenging.

Muscle fatigue from carbon monoxide differs significantly from regular tiredness. It often occurs spontaneously and outside of physical activity. When weakness and fatigue accompany headaches and dizziness, the cause is likely carbon monoxide poisoning. With continued exposure, the muscle fatigue symptoms can become so severe the victim cannot move.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, but victims often mistakenly believe they have these symptoms because of something they ate. You may find eating and drinking difficult when the GI system lacks oxygen. You may only initially experience nausea, but with continued exposure, vomiting is likely to follow.

Breathing Difficulties

Carbon monoxide can lead to signs of breathing difficulties, such as shortness of breath and labored or shallow breathing. The body will increase respiration to accommodate the influx of carbon monoxide. Victims may gasp for air and experience chest tightness and pain.

Confusion and Impaired Judgement

Carbon monoxide poisoning can have a dangerous impact on brain function, leading to confusion and impaired judgment, often as if the victim is drunk. You may dismiss these feelings and think they occur because of stress or tiredness. Victims may become so severely intoxicated with carbon monoxide that they begin acting irrationally or erratically.

The Advanced Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

With continued exposure to carbon monoxide or exposure at higher levels comes advanced symptoms that indicate lives are in danger. Recognizing the signs of advanced symptoms is critical so you can seek the closest emergency responders in Greenville.

Chest Pain Accompanied by Irregular Heartbeat

Carbon monoxide impacts the cardiovascular system first. Those with pre-existing heart conditions may experience worsening symptoms with carbon monoxide poisoning.

A lack of oxygen causes angina (chest pain) and can lead to the heart pumping out of rhythm. Without medical care, victims can experience loss of consciousness and sudden cardiac arrest.

Fainting

Fainting is a sign the body lacks oxygen. If someone complains of lightheadedness and dizziness, get them seated or lying on the floor. Sudden fainting can cause serious injuries, including those to the head. Fainting can happen without warning, so it is essential to act quickly.

Seizures

Seizures occur because of abnormal electrical brain activity. In the case of carbon monoxide poisoning, the lack of oxygen in the brain leads to abnormal electrical signals that can result in seizures. Seizures from carbon monoxide exposure can be dangerous and even deadly. Seek immediate medical care.

Blurred Vision and Lack of Coordination

In addition to impacting the muscles and nervous system, carbon monoxide can also disrupt vision and motor skills. Victims may experience blurred or double vision or a lack of focus. Sudden loss of coordination can result in stumbling or difficulty standing or walking. Do not ignore these deadly warning signs.

Coma and Death

Prolonged exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can lead to comas and death. When the brain gets deprived of oxygen for too long, it will shut down. Irreversible brain damage can result. Falling into a coma is usually the last stage of carbon monoxide poisoning and requires immediate medical care to avoid death.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide can be deadly, and you should always pay attention to the warning symptoms above. When you or someone else develops symptoms, call 911 immediately. Minutes matter when it comes to saving lives from carbon monoxide poisoning. The following are preventative measures you can take to protect your family.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Install carbon monoxide detectors on all floors near bedrooms, gas-powered appliances, and your HVAC system. Test them monthly to ensure proper detection.

Service Your HVAC and Appliances

Seek maintenance and repair services to keep your HVAC system operating safely and efficiently. Professional inspections and repairs for gas appliances, such as stoves, are also important.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Your home’s ventilation system is a critical component of protection. Never use fuel-burning appliances inside your home without proper ventilation.

Never Run Vehicles in Enclosed Spaces

Never leave your vehicle running in the garage or an enclosed space. Carbon monoxide levels can build up quickly.

Educate Your Loved Ones

Teach your family about the dangers of carbon monoxide and the signs of poisoning. Have a plan of action in place if your carbon monoxide detector sounds.

Reach Out to Local Home Services Experts

Black-Haak is a heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical company serving the needs of our neighbors in Greenville since 1956. We offer installation, maintenance, and repair services for all makes and models of HVAC systems, including heat pumps.

Rely on our electrical installation, maintenance, and repair services. We offer services for generators, house automation systems, and surge protection. Our plumbers install, maintain, and repair all plumbing components, including tankless water heaters, for Greenville residents.

If you are concerned about carbon monoxide poisoning risks, seek professional prevention from Black-Haak today.