Carboxymyoglobin

Carboxymyoglobin: what is it and how does it occur?

Carboxymyoglobin (COHb) is a compound of myoglobin with carbon monoxide that is produced by carbon monoxide poisoning, smoke, and other sources of carbon monoxide. This is a serious problem for human health because COHb reduces the amount of available oxygen in the blood.

How does carboxymyoglobin occur? Carbon monoxide contains carbon monoxide (CO), which very quickly binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells to form COHb. When the amount of COHb in the blood reaches a certain level, it can lead to serious consequences such as dizziness, nausea, seizures, loss of consciousness and even death.

How is carboxymyoglobin level determined? COHb levels in the blood can be measured using blood or breath. In most cases, COHb levels are measured using a blood test, although newer technologies can measure COHb levels in the breath. Typically, blood COHb levels should not exceed 2% in non-smokers and 5% in smokers.

How to prevent carboxymyoglobin poisoning? To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, it is necessary to monitor the technical condition of gas-powered appliances and to ventilate the premises well. If you work in an environment where there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, you should wear protective masks or breathing apparatus.

In conclusion, carboxymyoglobin is a serious human health problem that can occur with carbon monoxide poisoning. Pay attention to prevention to avoid this danger. If you suspect you or someone else has carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.