Carbon Monoxide (Carbon Monoxide)

Carbon monoxide (carbon monoxide)

Carbon monoxide (carbon monoxide, CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that does not irritate mucous membranes. Formed during incomplete combustion of organic substances. Carbon monoxide has a pronounced toxic effect.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Mild degree - headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, increased blood pressure, cough. The content of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood is 20-30%.

2. Moderate degree - short-term loss of consciousness, agitation or retardation, respiratory failure, tachycardia, myocardial damage. Carboxyhemoglobin content is 30-40%.

3. Severe degree - prolonged loss of consciousness, convulsions, cerebral edema, respiratory failure, hypertension, myocardial infarction. Carboxyhemoglobin content is more than 50%.

Treatment includes oxygen inhalation, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and symptomatic therapy. It is important to remove the victim from the poisoning zone into fresh air as quickly as possible.

Prevention of poisoning involves regular monitoring of CO levels and compliance with fire safety rules.