Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Known as the silent killer No Color No Odor No Taste CO poisoning –Toxic effect when absorbed through the lungs into the blood

Blood Cell Biology Red Blood Cell –Erythrocytes –Carry Oxygen to vital organs and Carbon Dioxide away Hemoglobin –Molecule in RBC’s that Oxygen binds to –Iron is major element in Hemoglobin

RBC’s Carbon Monoxide has a stronger attraction to Hemoglobin than Oxygen does When CO and O2 are both exposed to RBC’s the CO “wins” CO poisoning is actually suffocation Vital organs have the greatest need for O2 –Not enough Oxygen to vital organs (brain, heart, liver) and the person dies (small kids are more susceptible)

Blood Biology Blood Chemo Sensors Sense: –Carbon Dioxide levels –Not oxygen –Not CO Breathe faster when CO2 levels are high “Silent Killer” –Don’t know you’re suffocating because you don’t have a build up of CO2 (O2 has nothing to do with it)

How, Where, and Who CO is release from combustion Must have proper ventilation of “smoke” in order to prevent high levels Gas Grills, Furnace, gas driers, portable heaters, cars, cigarettes. CO sinks when it cools and collects in the lowest places MUST VENTILATE

Symptoms and Treatment May be no symptoms at all Headache, Fatigue, Vomiting, Dizzy, Loss of appetite Must get fresh air don’t let victim fall asleep CPR may be necessary Hyperbolic Chamber Ventilate and get a CO Detector especially in the basement and near bedrooms

The End