Poisoning caused by breathing carbon monoxide.
Toxic condition caused by the inhalation and absorption of carbon monoxide gas, which is often generated during a fire or in the presence of a poorly functioning gas heating device. The carbon monoxide combines with hemoglobin in the blood, displacing oxygen, and causes loss of oxygen to body tissues. Symptoms include headache. shortness of breath, confusion, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and, if continued, death. Treatment involves removal of the person from the carbon monoxide environment, high concentrations of oxygen, and sometimes the use of a hyperbaric (oxygen) chamber.
Poisoning from the inhalation of carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless, colorless gas produced by the incomplete burning of carbon-based fuel. Car¬ bon monoxide can take the place of oxygen in the blood. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, fainting, confusion, unconsciousness, chest pain, breathing difficulties, bluish color of lips and fingernails, pale skin, nausea and vomiting, low blood pressure, abnormal heartbeat, hyperactivity, seizures, coma, and shock. When the concentration of carbon monoxide is very high, muscle paralysis, seizures, coma, and death can occur.
Toxicity that results from inhalation of small amounts of carbon monoxide (CO) over a long period or from large amounts inhaled for a short time. In the U.S., where exposure to smoke, car exhaust, and other sources of incomplete combustion of carbon fuels is common (esp. during the winter months), CO poisoning is one of the most frequent, and potentially deadliest, intoxications. CO poisoning results from the avid chemical combination of the gas with hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin (COHb).