Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, non-irritating gas, less dense than air, responsible for potentially fatal poisonings, especially during the winter season. It is formed by the incomplete combustion of natural gas, wood, gasoline, kerosene, paper, and other carbonaceous products.
It can affect people and animals, with children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with heart or respiratory diseases or anemia, and pets being especially susceptible. Poisoning occurs upon inhalation, and it is difficult to diagnose because it presents symptoms and signs similar to those of other diseases. It can leave neurological sequelae.
Carbon monoxide poisoning should be suspected when one or more people who are in a closed environment present some of these symptoms and/or signs at the same time: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, depression of the sensorium.
Treatment is based on:
- Remove the affected person(s) from the contaminated environment to fresh air and transport them to the nearest health facility, even if there is no loss of consciousness.
- At the hospital, administer oxygen at the highest FIO2, with a reservoir mask, if possible.
- Consult with a Poison Control Center for patient follow-up.
CARBON MONOXIDE POISONINGS ARE MANDATORY TO REPORT.
Prevention:
- All household appliances that run on fuel or gas (heaters, water heaters, boilers, etc.) must be installed and checked periodically by licensed personnel. Ensure that outlets to the outside are clear.
- Fireplace chimneys and their flues must be maintained and cleaned annually.
- When the heating is on, verify that the air intake to the room is not obstructed.
- If braziers or kerosene heaters are used, turn them off and take them outside before going to bed.
- Do not use the oven or kitchen burners to heat the home.
- Do not install gas water heaters inside bathrooms. If they are already in that location, call a licensed gas technician and relocate them.
- Car exhaust pipes must be inspected regularly to detect defects.
- Do not leave vehicle engines running in basements or closed garages.
- Do not leave children and pets inside a closed car with the engine running inside the garage.
- If the flame of any lit appliance is not blue, turn it off and call technical service to have it checked.
- Always leave some space open for air to circulate.
|