Carbon monoxide poisoning

The blood stops carrying oxygen to carry this gas, preventing oxygen from reaching the tissues, so the body has less and less oxygen, leading to organ failure.

The most common sources of CO emissions that can cause such poisoning in the event of a leak are poorly installed or maintained equipment and household appliances, blocked vents, fires, vehicle engines and anything that burns coal or wood.

Symptoms can include headache, nausea, vomiting, bad breath, weakness and even paralysis of the lower limbs, drowsiness, loss of vision and hearing, loss of reflexes and consciousness, seizures, irregular heartbeat, dilated pupils, labored breathing and bluish skin.

Diagnosis is made by taking a detailed medical history, performing a full physical examination and carrying out additional tests (laboratory tests, electrocardiogram and imaging tests).

The main treatment is the administration of high concentrations of oxygen through a mask and, in very severe cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The patient must remain in the hospital under constant observation, in complete rest, with temperature and symptoms monitored.