Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often resemble common illnesses, which makes the condition easy to miss. The most common symptoms poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can cause unconsciousness, coma, or death.
Symptoms vary depending on the level and duration of exposure. At low levels, people may feel unwell without knowing why. The classic early signs include:
- Tension-type headache, often dull and persistent
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath, especially during exertion
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
With continued exposure, symptoms escalate. People may experience:
- Chest pain or palpitations, particularly in those with heart conditions
- Blurred vision
- Loss of coordination
- Fainting or collapse
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
One of the hallmark signs is that multiple people in the same environment (such as a household) develop similar symptoms at the same time, which should raise immediate suspicion of CO exposure.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Chronic low-level exposure may cause memory problems, irritability, sleep disturbances, and difficulty focusing. In pregnant women, it can lead to developmental issues or stillbirth due to reduced oxygen to the foetus.
Symptoms often worsen indoors and improve upon leaving the building. Pets may be affected before humans, showing signs of lethargy, unsteadiness, or vomiting.
Because early symptoms mimic flu, food poisoning, or fatigue, it’s vital to consider environmental exposure — especially if there’s a gas appliance, fire, or generator in use.
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