Final answer:
Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs from inhaling excessive levels of CO, a colorless, odorless gas, which prevents the blood from carrying oxygen. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, vomiting, and more. It can be caused by the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels and is treated with oxygen administration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms and Causes
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a potentially dangerous condition caused by inhaling carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas. When CO is inhaled, it binds with hemoglobin in the blood, forming carboxyhemoglobin and preventing the blood from carrying sufficient oxygen throughout the body. Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. In severe cases, it can lead to loss of consciousness, arrhythmias, seizures, and even death.
Exposure to CO can occur due to the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels from sources like motor vehicles, heaters, gas stoves, and some gas appliances. Indoor levels of CO vary, but higher concentrations can be found near poorly adjusted gas stoves which may emit 30 parts per million (ppm) or higher. Treatment involves immediate removal from the exposure site and the administration of oxygen, with pure oxygen greatly speeding up the dissociation of CO from hemoglobin.
Preventing carbon monoxide exposure involves ensuring proper ventilation and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances and tools, and installing CO detectors in homes and workplaces.