How are humans exposed to carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide poisoning is caused by inhaling combustion fumes. When too much carbon monoxide is in the air you’re breathing, your body replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells with carbon monoxide.

How does carbon monoxide eventually kill you?

The specific danger posed by carbon monoxide is that red blood cells will absorb carbon monoxide and turn away oxygen. As a result, oxygen starvation inside the human body occurs which will ultimately cause cellular death. Should this occur at high enough concentrations, affected individuals will eventually suffocate.

Which part of the body is most affected by carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide can severely affect the central nervous system and people with cardiovascular disease. Carbon monoxide leaves the brain struggling for sufficient levels of oxygen and this in turn affects the heart, brain and central nervous system.

How long does it take to get brain damage from carbon monoxide?

An unusual feature of acute CO poisoning is the delayed deterioration in neurological condition which may be seen in some cases, occurring anything from a few days to as long as five to six weeks after the initial exposure.

What happens to the brain after carbon monoxide poisoning?

Survivors of severe, acute CO poisoning can develop long-term neurologic sequelae (e.g., impairments in memory, concentration, and speech, as well as depression and parkinsonism). These sequelae may arise immediately after CO poisoning or may be delayed (occurring 2–21 days after CO poisoning).

How do you know if someone has died from poisoning?

How to Tell if Someone has Been Poisoned

1. Very large or very small pupils.
2. Rapid or very slow heartbeat.
3. Rapid or very slow breathing.
4. Drooling or very dry mouth.
5. Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
6. Sleepiness or hyperactivity.
7. Confusion.
8. Slurred speech.