co
Table of Contents
carbon monoxide poisoning (CO)
introduction
- carbon monoxide is an odourless gas which can cause insidious poisoning resulting in death
- this is particularly likely in enclosed rooms or in cars (car exhaust fumes piped back into cars are a common mode of suicidality)
- even room exhaust fans can contribute by drawing gas heater exhaust gases back down the flue and into the room
- it is a significant issue also for those inside a house which is burning, including rescuers
clinical features
- Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- tiredness
- shortness of breath
- dizziness
- nausea
- weakness
- confusion
- chest pain
- NB. patients do not become cyanosed as CoHb levels in blood cause patient to remain pink!
diagnosis
- arterial or venous blood gas measurement with COHb levels
management
- usual supportive care
- supplemental oxygen
signs of faulty gas heaters
- heaters needs to be routinely checked at least every 2 years, and also if:
- There is a yellow or sooty flame (unless it is a decorative gas log fire)
- The pilot light goes out unexpectedly, or ‘pops’ or ‘bangs’ when lighting.
- There are signs of heat damage such as discoloration of the walls or heater panels.
- The walls become too hot to touch while the heater is on.
- There are soot stains around the heater.
- Missing cowl on flue
consumer gas heater testing
co.txt · Last modified: 2013/05/19 07:58 by 127.0.0.1