Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: An Overview
Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on May 29, 2017
Carbon monoxide (CO2) is a dangerous gas due to its colorless and odorless qualities that make it hard to detect. Carbon monoxide is the leader in causes of unintentional poisoning in the United States. Long periods of exposure to CO2 can cause life-long injuries and even death. Because of its odorless, colorless nature – it is important to be aware of signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is also important to know your rights if you are exposed to CO2 for an extended amount of time and want to take legal actions for compensation.
Carbon monoxide is often called the “silent killer” due to its qualities and because so many people are misdiagnosed each year. There are over 500 carbon monoxide deaths annually in the United States. Over 15,000 visits to the emergency room are due to carbon monoxide symptoms. The deaths that occur happen in the home, the workplace, and even public places on occasion.
Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
There are some clear signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, but the problem is these symptoms can be mistaken for general health issues and not associated with the more serious problem of carbon monoxide poisoning. You may be exposed to harmful amounts of carbon monoxide if you are suffering from:
- Headaches
- Wooziness
- Nausea
- Symptoms of the Flu
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, experts recommend looking for certain signs or running some tests to find out if you are truly suffering from chronic headaches and fatigue, coming down with the flu, or if you are being affected by carbon monoxide poisoning.
The first sign to look for is if you, alone, have these symptoms, or if other people in your home or workspace are also feeling the way that you do. If they are not then you may be coming down with some sort of illness; however, if they are, then it may be carbon monoxide poisoning. Another way to test if you are suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning instead of a general illness is if your headaches, nausea or other symptoms start to dissipate once you are outside and exposed to fresh air. If you pass either of these tests then it’s time to visit a doctor before it is too late.
Long Term Health Problems Caused by Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Surviving a prolonged period of exposure to carbon dioxide is rare and often leaves people with lifelong impairments. These are due to lower levels of oxygen reaching the brain while individuals are exposed to CO2. Damages from being exposed to carbon monoxide for too long can include:
- Brain Damage
- Suffocation
- Permanent Lack of Energy
- Cardiovascular Problems
- Coma
However, death is the most common result of carbon monoxide poisoning and there are no reparations that can be made. The usual causes of carbon monoxide leaks are faulty appliances, blocked chimneys, clogged exhaust vents, or non-vented fuel-powered heaters. It is important to be aware of these possible issues before heating your home and ensuring that you have proper carbon monoxide detection systems set up throughout your house. If you are a renter then it is imperative that you discuss proper carbon monoxide detection practices with your landlord.
The “silent killer” (carbon monoxide poisoning) is a serious and dangerous issue that should be regarded with the utmost seriousness. For your survival, it is important that you know the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, how to determine the difference between generalized illness and carbon monoxide poisoning, and what to do if you or someone you love has been a victim and suffered damages due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you feel that you or someone you love has suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning and you are experiencing lasting effects, you may be able to get monetary compensation for personal damages. Contact the Law Office of Cooper & Friedman at 502-459-7555 today and speak to an experienced injury attorney.