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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Colorless and odorless carbon monoxide is a silent killer; headache and confusion are the earliest signs.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas that binds to hemoglobin approximately 240 times more strongly than oxygen, preventing oxygen delivery to tissues. As a product of incomplete combustion, CO causes exposure through stoves, water heaters, blocked chimneys and fire smoke.

Symptoms are nonspecific; headache, dizziness, nausea and weakness are often confused with flu or fatigue. As exposure continues, loss of consciousness, seizures and death may develop.

Diagnosis is made by measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) level. The mainstay of treatment is high-flow 100% oxygen, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy in severe cases.

Symptoms

Throbbing headache
Dizziness, weakness and exhaustion
Nausea and vomiting
Confusion and memory difficulty
Chest pain and palpitations
Seizures and loss of consciousness
Similar complaints in multiple people in the same environment

Risk Factors

Use of stoves and fireplaces with incomplete combustion
Water heaters and combi boilers with blocked chimneys
Engines running in closed garages
Smoke inhalation from fires
Inadequately ventilated living spaces
Coal and wood heating in winter months

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 immediately if multiple people in the same household have headache and nausea
  • Leave the environment immediately, open windows and go outside
  • Go to the emergency room if confusion, seizures or fainting occur
  • Even low-level CO exposure can be serious in pregnancy; presentation is mandatory

Treatment Methods

01
Termination of exposure and removal to fresh air
02
100% oxygen via reservoir mask (at least 6 hours)
03
Arterial blood gas and COHb level measurement
04
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in severe cases
05
ECG, troponin and neurological monitoring
06
Home gas safety check and recommendation of a protective CO detector

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.