Little is known about chronic CO poisoning, and it is often misdiagnosed.
Although most CO poisoning is acute, or sudden, it is possible to suffer from chronic CO poisoning. This condition exists when a person is exposed to low levels of the gas over a period of days to months.
Anyone who is exposed to CO will become sick, and the entire body is involved in CO poisoning.
The symptoms of CO poisoning and the speed with which they appear depend on the concentration of CO in the air and the rate and efficiency with which a person breathes.
The speed and degree of recovery from CO poisoning depends on the length and duration of exposure to the gas.
Emergency room physicians have the most experience diagnosing and treating CO poisoning.
Stopping smoking. Smokers have less tolerance to environmental CO.
Under these circumstances, one or more persons suffering from the symptoms listed above strongly suggests CO poisoning.
In some cases, the skin, mucous membranes, and nails of a person with CO poisoning are cherry red or bright pink.
CO Carbon monoxide is combined with hemoglobin and carboxyhemoglobin is formed; this compound block the diffusion of oxygen in blood.
CO poisoning, also known as carbon monoxide poisoning, occurs when an individual inhales the toxic gas carbon monoxide. This gas is produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as wood, gasoline, and natural gas. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue, and it can be fatal if not promptly treated.
CO on a blood test typically stands for "carbon monoxide." Elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the blood can be harmful and are often seen in cases of carbon monoxide poisoning. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can range from mild to severe and may include headache, dizziness, confusion, and ultimately lead to death if exposure is prolonged.
Although the symptoms of CO poisoning may subside in a few hours, some patients show memory problems, fatigue, confusion, and mood changes for two to four weeks after their exposure to the gas.