Final answer:
The early warning signs of carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication include headache and dizziness, nausea and vomiting, chest pain and shortness of breath, and confusion, potentially leading to loss of consciousness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication is a serious and potentially fatal condition that results from inhaling CO gas, which is a colorless and odorless byproduct of combustion. Exposure to CO can lead to various symptoms that are often described as 'flu-like.'
The early warning signs include headache and dizziness, which are frequently accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, chest pain and shortness of breath, confusion, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
These symptoms are indicative of CO’s ability to bind to hemoglobin with a greater affinity than oxygen, effectively reducing the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen to the body's organs and tissues.
Immediate treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning involves removing the individual from the exposure area to fresh air and administering 100 percent oxygen to displace CO from the hemoglobin, thereby restoring its oxygen-carrying capacity.
Home appliances such as stoves, heaters, and other fuel-burning equipment can be sources of CO indoors, while motor vehicles are the major contributors outdoors, particularly in urban areas.
In conclusion, being aware of the early signs and quickly responding to potential CO exposure is crucial for preventing long-term health effects or fatality.