Carbon monoxide poisoning
Prolonged significant exposure to carbon monoxide can cause serious complications, including brain damage and heart problems. In very severe cases, it can result in death.
Effects of severe carbon monoxide poisoning include:
Around10-15% of people who have severe carbon monoxide poisoning develop long-term complications.
Prolonged exposure tocarbon monoxidecan cause memory problems and difficulty concentrating. It can also cause vision loss and hearing loss .
In rare cases, severe carbon monoxide poisoning can cause Parkinsonism, which is characterised by tremors , stiffness and slow movement.
Parkinsonism isn't the same as Parkinson's disease , which isa degenerative neurological condition linked toageing.
Coronary heart disease is another serious condition thatcan develop as a result of long-term carbon monoxideexposure.
Coronary heart disease is where the heart's blood supply is blocked or interrupted by a build-up of fatty substances (atheroma)in the coronary arteries.
If the blood supply is restricted, it can cause angina (chest pains). Ifthe coronary arteries become completely blocked, it can causea heart attack .
Long-term exposure tocarbon monoxidegas can also damage an unborn baby. Babies exposed tocarbon monoxideduring pregnancy areat risk of:
Read about carbon monoxide poisoning, including symptoms, causes, signs to look out for, what to do if you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, plus prevention advice.
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoningaren't always obvious, particularly during low-level exposure. A tension-type headache is the most common symptom ofmild carbon monoxide poisoning.Other symp
Carbon monoxideis produced whenfuels such asgas, oil, coal and wooddon't burn fully. Burning charcoal, running cars and the smoke fromcigarettes also produce carbon monoxide gas. Gas, oil, coal and
Seek medical advice fromyour GP if you think you've been exposed to low levels of carbon monoxide. Goimmediately to your local accident and emergency (A&E) department if you think you've been exp
Prolonged significant exposure to carbon monoxide can cause serious complications, including brain damage and heart problems. In very severe cases, it can result in death. Effects of severe carbon mo
It's important to be aware of the dangers and identify anyappliances in your housethat could potentiallyleak carbon monoxide. Maintaining and servicing appliances Boilers, cookers, heating systems a
If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or you suspect a leak: stop using all appliances, switch them off,and open doors and windows to ventilate the property evacuate the property immediately st
It's very important to be aware of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and to look out for warning signs. You should suspect carbon monoxide poisoning if: other people in your house, flat or work