It’s important that you are aware of the causes and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is also important that you take the steps necessary to prevent the presence of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur even from breathing in small amounts of the poisonous gas. When inhaled it combines with the blood and prevents the absorption of oxygen. Over time this causes cells and body tissue to die.
Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be hard to detect and can be similar to many other illnesses including that of a cold or flu:
- Headaches
- Unexplained chest pains and weakness in muscles
- Feeling of nausea, diarrhoea and stomach pains
- Feeling dizzy when standing up
- Feeling generally lethargic
What should you do if anyone in your family is presenting with these symptoms?
If anyone in the house is complaining of these symptoms the most important thing to do is to ventilate the area immediately by opening windows and doors and get the person into fresh air.
The next thing to do is to make an urgent appointment with your GP and have him perform a check for carbon monoxide poisoning. It is important that this is done as soon as possible after suspected exposure.
You should stop using any appliances that may be causing the production of carbon monoxide and don’t use it again until the appliance has been checked by a Registered Gas Installer, Registered Oil Technician or a qualified service agent for your fuel type.
Read more: Safety precautions around carbon monoxide
