Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu. As a result, many cases of CO poisoning may be left unreported and untreated during flu season.
If carbon monoxide is inhaled, it depletes the amount of oxygen in your red blood cells. Depending on the amount inhaled and the length of time you have been exposed, your symptoms could include the following:
- Low exposure – slight headache and /or shortage of breath during moderate physical activity.
- Higher exposure – severe headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, weakness, vision and hearing impairment, collapse or fainting during exertion, loss of muscle control, and/or drowsiness.
- Extreme exposure – unconsciousness, brain damage, or death.
If any member of your household is affected, or if you have symptoms that go away when you leave your home, you should suspect the presence of carbon monoxide and take immediate action.
